Application of a high-resolution terahertz gas spectroscopy method to compositional analysis of thermal decomposition products of human fluids (urine)

Abstract

Subject of study. In this study, the compositions of thermal decomposition products of samples of human fluids (urine) of cancer patients obtained before and after chemotherapy were investigated to identify the markers reflecting the influence of platinum-based chemotherapy, including its nephrotoxic influence, on the human body. Method. Molecular absorption spectroscopy, including nonstationary spectroscopy in the terahertz frequency range, is a prospective approach to investigation of multicomponent gas mixtures of different origins, including those of biological origin. The rotational spectrum lines and low-frequency vibrational spectra of molecules are in the terahertz frequency range (0.100–10 THz). When radiation transmitted through a gaseous sample is detected, the absorption lines, which are a unique characteristic of specific substances, are recorded in the spectrum. These absorption lines indicate the presence of the corresponding substances in the investigated multicomponent gas mixture; thus, this technique allows the identification of potential markers for pathologies and diseases as well as markers characterizing the effects of various exposure types on the human body, including the effect of drugs. Main results. A complex of metabolites resulting from the thermal decomposition of the sample was identified. The contents of gaseous thermal decomposition products of urine obtained from sick and conditionally healthy volunteers were compared. In addition, the contents of thermal decomposition products of urine obtained from the cancer patients before and after chemotherapy were compared. Practical significance. The proposed approach is advantageous for the development of a noninvasive investigation method that facilitates the assessment of chemotherapy effects on the human body.