Characterization and quantification of monoterpenoids in different types of peony root and the related Paeonia species by liquid chromatography coupled with ion trap and time-of-flight mass spectrometry

LMD and LC-MS-based chemical constituents and pharmacological effects assessment for two different processing methods of the root of Paeonia lactiflora Pall

The plant of Paeonia lactiflora Pall. belongs to Ranunculaceae, and its root can be divided into two categories according to different processing methods, which included that one was directly dried without peeling the root of the P. lactiflora (PR), and the other was peeled the root of the P. lactiflora (PPR) after boiled and dried. To evaluate the difference of chemical components, UPLC-ESI-Q-Exactive Focus-MS/MS and UPLC-QQQ-MS were applied. The distribution of chemical components in different tissues was located by laser microdissection (LMD), especially the different ingredients. A total of 86 compounds were identified from PR and PPR. Four kind of tissues were isolated from the fresh root of the P. lactiflora (FPR), and 54 compounds were identified. Especially the content of gallic acid, albiflorin, and paeoniflorin with high biological activities were the highest in the cork, but they were lower in PR than that in PPR, which probably related to the process. To illustrate the difference in pharmacological effects of PR and PPR, the tonifying blood and analgesic effects on mice were investigated, and it was found that the tonifying blood and analgesic effects of PPR was superior to that of PR, even though PR had more constituents. The material basis for tonifying blood and analgesic effect of the root of P. lactiflora is likely to be associated with an increase in constituents such as paeoniflorin and paeoniflorin lactone after boiled and peeled. The study was likely to provide some theoretical support for the standard and clinical application.

Chemical Profiling of Shen-Wu-Yi-Shen Tablets Using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS and Its Quality Evaluation Based on UPLC-DAD Combined with Multivariate Statistical Analysis

Shen-Wu-Yi-Shen tablets (SWYST) is a traditional Chinese medicine prescription used for treating chronic kidney disease (CKD). This study aims to characterize the constituents in SWYST and evaluate the quality based on the quantification of multiple bioactive components. SWYST samples were analyzed with ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS) and a data-processing strategy. As a result, 215 compounds in SWYST were unambiguously identified or tentatively characterized, including 14 potential new compounds. Meanwhile, strategies based on characteristic fragments for rapid identification were summarized, indicating that the qualitative method is accurate and feasible. Notably, the glucose esters of laccaic acid D-type anthraquinone were first found and their fragmentation patterns were described by comparing that of O-glycoside isomers. Besides, based on comparisons of the cleavage ways of mono-acyl glucose with different acyl groups or acylation sites, differences in fragmentation pathways between 1,2-di-O-acyl glucose and 1,6-di-O-acyl glucose were proposed for the first time and verified by reference substances. In addition, a validated UPLC-DAD was established for the determination of 11 major bioactive components related to treatment of CKD (albiflorin, paeoniflorin, 2,3,5,4'-tetrahydroxy-stilbene-2-O-β-d-glucoside (TSG), 1-O-galloyl-2-O-cinnamoyl-β-d-glucose, emodin-8-O-β-d-glucoside, chrysophanol-O-β-d-glucoside, aloe-emodin, rhein, emodin, chrysophanol and physcion). Moreover, TSG and 1-O-galloyl-2-O-cinnamoyl-β-d-glucose were found as the quality markers related to the origins of SWYST based on multivariate statistical analysis. Conclusively, the findings in this work provide a feasible reference for further studies on quality research and mechanisms of action in treating CKD.

Systematic qualitative analysis of terpenes in mastic (Pistacia lentiscus L.) extract and their fragmentations by UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-HRMS

INTRODUCTION

Mastic is a natural resin produced by Pistacia lentiscus L. (Anacardiaceae). The beneficial properties of this resin are attributed to its triterpenes and volatile compounds.

OBJECTIVE

This study was conducted to screen and characterize the terpenes in mastic ethyl acetate extract (M-Ex).

METHODS

An ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole Orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-HRMS) method was developed for the qualitative analysis of terpenes in M-Ex. We utilized in-house-isolated compounds as reference substance (Rs), including monoterpenes (A) with α-pinane structures, tetracyclic triterpene (B) containing tirucallane skeletons, and pentacyclic triterpene (C) belonging to olean, moronic, amyrone, and lupane types. Based on the mass spectrometric characteristics of the above compounds, and the difference in characteristic diagnostic fragment ions (DFIs) in isomeric compounds, the terpene compounds were further identified in M-Ex.

RESULTS

Out of a total of 70 compounds, including monoterpenes and tetra-, and pentacyclic triterpenes, 20 were accurately determined by Rs, retention time (RT), and DFIs. Based on the cleavage patterns summarized from the above 20 compounds and with reference to the reported literature, another 50 compounds were putatively identified. Based on our discovery, six terpenic acids with A-seco-tirucallane types and one monoterpene dimer were identified for the first time in mastic.

CONCLUSION

Our research serves not only as a foundation for the rapid identification and screening of terpene compounds in mastic but also as a supplementary basis for the identification of such compounds in other types of resins.

Integrating UPLC-Q-TOF-MS and Network Pharmacology to Explore the Potential Mechanisms of Paeonia lactiflora Pall. in the Treatment of Blood Stasis Syndrome

Paeonia lactiflora Pall. (PLP) is thought to promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis. This study used blood component analysis, network pharmacology, and molecular docking to predict the mechanism of PLP in the treatment of blood stasis syndrome (BSS). PLP was processed into Paeoniae Radix Alba (PRA) and Paeoniae Radix Rubra (PRR). PRA and PRR could significantly reduce whole blood viscosity (WBV) at 1/s shear rates and could increase the erythrocyte aggregation index (EAI), plasma viscosity (PV), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) of rats with acute blood stasis. They prolonged the prothrombin time (PT), and PRR prolonged the activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT). PRA and PRR increased the thrombin time (TT) and decreased the fibrinogen (FBG) content. All the results were significant (p < 0.05). Ten components of Paeoniflorin, Albiflorin, Paeonin C, and others were identified in the plasma of rats using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS). A protein-protein interaction network (PPI) analysis showed that AKT1, EGFR, SRC, MAPK14, NOS3, and KDR were key targets of PLP in the treatment of BSS, and the molecular docking results further verified this. This study indicated that PLP improves BSS in multiple ways and that the potential pharmacological mechanisms may be related to angiogenesis, vasoconstriction and relaxation, coagulation, and the migration and proliferation of vascular cells.

A SARS-CoV-2 Mpro fluorescent sensor for exploring pharmacodynamic substances from traditional Chinese medicine

The main protease of SARS-CoV-2 (SARS-CoV-2 Mpro) plays a critical role in the replication and life cycle of the virus. Currently, how to screen SARS-CoV-2 Mpro inhibitors from complex traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is the bottleneck for exploring the pharmacodynamic substances of TCM against SARS-CoV-2. In this study, a simple, cost-effective, rapid, and selective fluorescent sensor (TPE-S-TLG sensor) was designed with an AIE (aggregation-induced emission) probe (TPE-Ph-In) and the SARS-CoV-2 Mpro substrate (S-TLG). The TPE-S-TLG sensor was characterized using UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), zeta potential, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy techniques. The limit of detection of this method to detect SARS-CoV-2 Mpro was measured to be 5 ng mL-1. Furthermore, the TPE-S-TLG sensor was also successfully applied to screen Mpro inhibitors from Xuebijing injection using the separation and collection of the HPLC-fully automatic partial fraction collector (HPLC-FC). Six active compounds, including protocatechualdehyde, chlorogenic acid, hydroxysafflower yellow A, caffeic acid, isoquercetin, and pentagalloylglucose, were identified using UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS that could achieve 90% of the Mpro inhibition rate for the Xuebijing injection. Accordingly, the strategy can be broadly applied in the detection of disease-related proteases as well as screening active substances from TCM.

A LC-MS-based serum pharmacochemistry approach to reveal the compatibility features of mutual promotion/assistance herb pairs in Xijiao Dihuang decoction

Xijiao Dihuang decoction (XDT), a famous formula, was usually used to improve the prognosis of patients with blood-heat and blood-stasis syndrome-related diseases. There were some mutual promotion and mutual assistance herb pairs in XDT. However, the exact functions of these herb pairs in the compatibility of XDT were not elucidated due to the lack of appropriate methodologies. Based on the theory of serum pharmacochemistry, a systematic method was established for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of characteristic components in the extracts and drug-containing plasma samples of XDT and its relational mutual promotion/assistance herb pairs. For qualitative analysis, 85 characteristic components were identified using the liquid chromatography with triple time-of-flight mass/mass spectrometry (LC-Triple QTOF-MS/MS) based on the mass defect filtering, product ion filtering, neutral loss filtering and isotope pattern filtering techniques. For quantitative detection, a relative quantitation assay using an extract ion chromatogram (EIC) of the full scan MS experiment was validated and employed to assess the quantity of the 85 identified compounds in the test samples of single herb, herb pairs and XDT. The results of multivariate statistical analyses indicated that both the assistant and guide herbs could improve the solubilization of active compounds from the sovereign and minister herbs in XDT in vitro, might change the trans-membrane transportation, and regulate metabolism in vivo. The methods used in present study might be also valuable for the investigation of multiple components from other classic TCM formulas for the purpose of compatibility feature study.

Phytochemical Analysis, Biological Activities, and Molecular Docking Studies of Root Extracts from Paeonia Species in Serbia

Without being aware of their chemical composition, many cultures have used herbaceous peony roots for medicinal purposes. Modern phytopreparations intended for use in human therapy require specific knowledge about the chemistry of peony roots and their biological activities. In this study, ethanol-water extracts were prepared by maceration and microwave- and ultrasound-assisted extractions (MAE and UAE, respectively) in order to obtain bioactive molecules from the roots of Paeonia tenuifolia L., Paeonia peregrina Mill., and Paeonia officinalis L. wild growing in Serbia. Chemical characterization; polyphenol and flavonoid content; antioxidant, multianti-enzymatic, and antibacterial activities of extracts; and in vitro gastrointestinal digestion (GID) of hot water extracts were performed. The strongest anti-cholinesterase activity was observed in PT extracts. The highest anti-ABTS (2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) radical potential was observed in PP extracts, whereas against DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radicals), the best results were achieved with PO extracts. Regarding antibacterial activity, extracts were strongly potent against Bacillus cereus. A molecular docking simulation was conducted to gather insights into the binding affinity and interactions of polyphenols and other Paeonia-specific molecules in the active sites of tested enzymes. In vitro GID of Paeonia teas showed a different recovery and behavior of the individual bioactives, with an increased recovery of methyl gallate and digallate and a decreased recovery of paeoniflorin and its derivatives. PT (Gulenovci) and PP (Pirot) extracts obtained by UAE and M were more efficient in the majority of the bioactivity assays. This study represents an initial step toward the possible application of Paeonia root extracts in pharmacy, medicine, and food technologies.

Kuntai capsule attenuates premature ovarian insufficiency by activating the FOXO3/SIRT5 signaling pathway in mice: A comprehensive study using UHPLC-LTQ-Orbitrap and integrated pharmacology

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Classical prescriptions are not only a primary method of clinical treatment in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) but also represent breakthroughs in the inheritance and development of this field. Kuntai capsule (KTC), a formulation based on a classical prescription, comprises six TCMs: Rehmanniae Radix Praeparata, Coptidis Rhizoma, Paeoniae Radix Alba, Scutellariae Radix, Asini Corii Colla, and Poria. This formulation possesses various beneficial effects, such as nourishing yin and blood, clearing heat and purging fire, and calming the nerves and relieving annoyance. The investigation of the efficacy and mechanism of KTC in regulating anti-aging factors in the treatment of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is not only a prominent topic in classical prescription research but also a crucial issue in the treatment of female reproductive aging using TCM.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the therapeutic effect of KTC on POI and its underlying mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Healthy and specific pathogen-free (SPF) female Kunming mice aged 6-8 weeks were selected. After acclimatization, the mice were randomly divided into a control, model, and high, middle, and low dose groups of KTC (1.6, 0.8, and 0.4 mg/kg, respectively). Except for the control group, the animals in the other groups were administered a single intraperitoneal injection of 120 mg/kg cyclophosphamide and 30 mg/kg Busulfan to induce the model of POI. After modeling, the mice were treated with the corresponding drugs for 7 days. Serum and ovarian tissues were collected, and the levels of serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol (E2), and superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The chemical composition of KTC was characterized and analyzed using ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography-linear ion trap-Orbitrap tandem mass spectrometry. A "drug-component-target-pathway-disease" network was constructed using network pharmacology research methods to identify the key active components of KTC in treating POI and to elucidate its potential mechanism. The protein expression of the FOXO3/SIRT5 pathway was detected by western blotting.

RESULTS

Compared to the model group, the high-dose group of KTC showed a significant increase in ovarian index, significant increase in levels of E2 and SOD2, and a significant decrease in FSH levels. Through systematic analysis of the chemical constituents of KTC, 69 compounds were identified, including 7 organic acids, 14 alkaloids, 28 flavonoids, 15 terpenoids, 2 lignans, 2 phenylpropanoids, and 1 sugar. Based on network pharmacology research methods, it was determined that KTC exerts its therapeutic effect on POI through multiple components (paeoniflorin and malic acid), multiple targets (FOXO3 and SIRT5), and multiple pathways (prolactin signaling pathway, longevity regulating pathway, and metabolic pathways). The accuracy of the network pharmacology prediction was further validated by detecting the protein expression of SIRT5 and FOXO3a, which showed a significant increase in the middle and high-dose groups of KTC compared to the model group.

CONCLUSIONS

KTC may effectively treat POI through a multi-component, multi-target, multi-pathway approach, providing an experimental basis for using KTC based on classical prescriptions in the treatment of POI.

Comprehensive study on genetic and chemical diversity of Asian medicinal plants, aimed at sustainable use and standardization of traditional crude drugs

Our representative studies to achieve sustainable use of crude drugs and ensure their stable quality are introduced: comprehensive studies on genetic, chemical, and sometimes pharmacological diversity of Asian medicinal plants including Paeonia lactiflora, Glycyrrhiza uralensis, Ephedra spp., Saposhnikovia divaricata, and Curcuma spp., as well as their related crude drugs. (1) For peony root, after genetic and chemical diversity analysis of crude drug samples including white and red peony root in China, the value-added resources with quality similar to red peony root were explored among 61 horticultural P. lactiflora varieties, and two varieties were identified. In addition, an optimized post-harvest processing method, which resulted in high contents of the main active components in the produced root, was developed to promote cultivation and production of brand peony root. (2) Alternative resources of glycyrrhiza, ephedra herb and saposhnikovia root and rhizome of Japanese Pharmacopoeia grade were discovered in eastern Mongolia after field investigation and quality assessment comparing Mongolian plants with Chinese crude drugs. Simultaneously, suitable specimens and prospective regions for cultivation were proposed. (3) Because of the wide distribution and morphological similarities of Curcuma species, classification of some species is debated, which leads to confusion in the use of Curcuma crude drugs. Molecular analyses of the intron length polymorphism (ILP) markers in genes encoding diketide-CoA synthase (DCS) and curcumin synthase (CURS) and trnK sequences, combined with essential oils analysis, were demonstrated as useful for standardization of Curcuma crude drugs. The above studies, representing various facets, can be applied to other crude drugs.

Danggui Shaoyao San: Chemical characterization and inhibition of oxidative stress and inflammation to treat CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Danggui Shaoyao San (DSS) has effective in treating hepatic ascites and liver disease.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To explore the chemical characterization of DSS and protective effect on CCl4-induced hepatic fibrosis and its mechanism, especially its anti-oxidative stress and anti-inflammation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The chemical characterization of DSS was determined by HPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap MS. And the antioxidant activity of DSS in vitro was determined. The hepatic fibrosis model was established using intragastric administration of 40% CCl4/soybean oil (v/v) twice weekly for 13 weeks. From 6th week, the DSS group and the positive control group were given DSS (2, 4, 8 g/kg/d) and silymarin (50 mg/kg/d), respectively. The livers of rats were examined histologically by H&E. The ALT, AST, ALB and TBIL were determined, and hepatic fibrosis markers (HA, LN, CIV, PIIINP), oxidative stress (SOD, MDA, GST, GSH) and inflammatory factor (IL-6, TNF-α) were tested using ELISA kits. In addition, the levels of TAC, TOS, LOOH and AOPP in the liver were also determined.

RESULTS

The chemical characterization of DSS was determined by HPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap MS. The results show that DSS mainly includes triterpenoids, monoterpenes, phenols, sesquiterpenes, butyl phthalide, etc., and DSS has good antioxidant activity in vitro. In addition, the ALT, AST and TBIL of rats were remarkably reduced after treatment with DSS at three doses. Liver histopathological analysis showed that DSS alleviated the inflammatory infiltration, hepatocyte swelling, necrosis and hepatic fibrosis induced by CCl4. DSS significantly decreased HA, IV-C, PIIINP and LN. Further determination showed that DSS significantly increased TAC, OSI and decreased TOC, LOOH and MDA, indicating that DSS could regulate redox balance and reduce lipid peroxidation in vivo. DSS also increased the activity of GST, SOD and GSH concentration. In addition, DSS also reduced IL-6 and TNF-α.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, we described the chemical characterization of DSS and found that it has good antioxidant activity. We proved that DSS has the functions of reducing oxidative stress, anti-inflammatory, protecting liver cells and reducing hepatic fibrosis.

Exploring the mechanism of Si-Ni-San against depression by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS integrated with network pharmacology: experimental research

Background

Depression is becoming an urgent mental health problem. Si-Ni-San has been widely used to treat depression, yet its underlying pharmacological mechanism is poorly understood. Thus, we aim to explore the antidepressant mechanism of Si-Ni-San by chemical analysis and in-silico methods.

Methods

Compounds in Si-Ni-San were determined by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS). Then, bioactive compounds were obtained from Traditional Chinese Medicines for Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform and SwissADME, and the potential targets of which were acquired from SwissTargetPrediction. Depression-related targets were collected from GeneCards. The intersection between compound-related targets and depression-related targets were screened out, and the overlapped targets were further performed protein-protein interaction, biological functional and pathway enrichment analysis. Finally, networks of Si-Ni-San against depression were constructed and visualized by Cytoscape.

Results

One hundred nineteen compounds in Si-Ni-San were determined, of which 24 bioactive compounds were obtained. Then, 137 overlapped targets of Si-Ni-San against depression were collected. AKT1, PIK3R1, PIK3CA, mTOR, MAPK1 and MAPK8 were the key targets. Furthermore, PI3K-Akt signalling pathway, serotonergic synapse, MAPK signalling pathway and neurotrophin signalling pathway were involved in the antidepressant mechanism of Si-Ni-San. It showed that components like sinensetin, hesperetin, liquiritigenin, naringenin, quercetin, albiflorin and paeoniflorin were the mainly key active compounds for the antidepressant effect of Si-Ni-San.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated the key components, key targets and potential pharmacological mechanisms of Si-Ni-San against depression. These results indicate that Si-Ni-San is a promising therapeutic approach for treatment of depression, and may provide evidence for the research and development of drugs for treating depression.

Ling-Gui-Qi-Hua formula alleviates left ventricular myocardial fibrosis in rats with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction by blocking the transforming growth factor-β1 /Smads signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ling-Qui-Qi-Hua (LGQH) decoction, composed of Poria cocos (Schw.) Wolf, Cinnamomum cassia (L.) J. Presl, Paeonia veitchii Lynch, and Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz., is a compound formula derived from Ling-Gui-Zhu-Gan decoction recorded in the Treatise on Febrile and Miscellaneous. It has shown cardioprotective effects on patients or rats with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Nevertheless, the active ingredients of LGQH and its anti-fibrotic mechanism remain unknown.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To determine the active ingredients in LGQH decoction and verify that LGQH decoction may inhibit left ventricular (LV) myocardial fibrosis in HFpEF rats by blocking the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)/Smads signaling pathway from the perspective of animal experiments.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

First, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) technology was used to identify active components in the LGQH decoction. Secondly, a rat model of the metabolic syndrome-associated HFpEF phenotype was established and subsequently received LGQH intervention. The mRNA and protein expression of targets in the TGF-β1/Smads pathway were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis. Finally, molecular docking was conducted to examine the interactions between the active ingredients in the LGQH decoction and key proteins of the TGF-β1/Smads pathways.

RESULTS

According to LC-MS analysis, the LGQH decoction contained 13 active ingredients. In animal experiments, LGQH attenuated LV hypertrophy, enlargement, and diastolic function in HEpEF rats. Mechanically, LGQH not only down-regulated TGF-β1, Smad2, Smad3, Smad4, α-SMA, Coll I, and Coll III mRNA expressions and TGF-β1, Smad2, Smad3, P-Smad2/Smad3, Smad4, α-SMA, and Coll I protein expressions, but also up-regulated Smad7 mRNA and protein expressions, which ultimately led to myocardial fibrosis. Furthermore, molecular docking confirmed that 13 active ingredients in the LGQH decoction have excellent binding activities to the critical targets of the TGF-β1/Smads pathway.

CONCLUSION

LGQH is a modified herbal formulation with multiple active ingredients. It might alleviate LV remodeling and diastolic dysfunction and inhibit LV myocardial fibrosis by blocking TGF-β1/Smads pathways in HFpEF rats.

Serum Pharmacochemistry Combined with Network Pharmacology-Based Mechanism Prediction and Pharmacological Validation of Zhenwu Decoction on Alleviating Isoprenaline-Induced Heart Failure Injury in Rats

Zhenwu decoction (ZWD) is a famous classical formula in the treatment of heart failure (HF) with significant clinical effects. Owing to the complex material basis of ZWD, it is challenging to elucidate the pharmacodynamic substances and pharmacological mechanisms of ZWD against HF. Therefore, an ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography system coupled with a high-resolution orbitrap mass spectrometry method was used to profile the chemical components and the absorbed prototype constituents in ISO-induced HF rat serum after oral administration of ZWD, and 33 out of 115 compounds were identified. In the in vivo study, ZWD could improve cardiac function and reduce the content of serum biochemical indexes, which are heart failure markers. With the help of network pharmacology and molecular docking simulation analysis, 112 ZWD targets oriented by HF were obtained, with STAT3, TNF, AKT1, VEGFA, and ALB as the core targets. Furthermore, we found that paeoniflorin and its derivatives may play a bigger role than other serum migrant components. Enriched pathway analysis yielded multiple HF-related signaling pathways, which indicated that ZWD may attenuate HF through the effect of PI3K-Akt, and MAPK pathways by regulating key targets such as STAT3, TNF, and AKT1. Finally, STAT3/MAPK pathways were experimentally validated in the anti-HF effect of ZWD. The phosphorylation levels of p38, JNK, ERK, and STAT3 were significantly increased in the ISO group and reversed by ZWD intervention. The results provided a reasonable strategy for the rapid screening of bioactive components in ZWD and a reference for quality control and further mechanism study of ZWD.

Metabolomics analysis of peony root using NMR spectroscopy and impact of the preprocessing method for NMR data in multivariate analysis

Peony root is an important herbal drug used as an antispasmodic analgesic. To evaluate peony roots with different botanical origins, producing areas, and post-harvest processing, 1H NMR-based metabolomics analysis was employed. Five types of monoterpenoids, including albiflorin (4), paeoniflorin (6), and sulfonated paeoniflorin (25), and six other compounds, including 1,2,3,4,6-penta-O-galloyl-β-D-glucose (18), benzoic acid (21), gallic acid (22), and sucrose (26) were detected in the extracts of peony root samples. Among them, compounds 4, 6, 18, and total monoterpenoids including 21 were quantified by quantitative 1H NMR (qHNMR). Compound 25 was detected in 1H NMR spectra of sulfur-fumigated white peony root (WPR) extracts indicating that 1H NMR was a fast and effective method for identifying sulfur-fumigated WPR. The content of 26, the main factor affecting extract yield, increased significantly in peony root after low-temperature storage for one month, whereas that in WPR did not increase due to the boiling treatment after harvesting. We investigated the impact of preprocessing methods to such analysis for NMR data from commercial samples, resulting that the data matrix transformed from qHNMR spectra and normalized to internal standard were optimum for multivariate analysis. The multivariate analysis demonstrated that among commercial samples derived from P. lactiflora, peony root samples in Japanese market (PR) had high contents of 18 and 22, and red peony root (RPR) samples had high content of monoterpenoids represented by 6; and among RPR samples, those derived from P. veitchii showed higher contents of 18 and 22 than those from P. lactiflora. The 1H NMR-based metabolomics method coupled with qHNMR was useful for evaluation of peony root and would be applicable for other crude drugs.

Skin health properties of Paeonia lactiflora flower extracts and tyrosinase inhibitors and free radical scavengers identified by HPLC post-column bioactivity assays

Skin health is a major concern across the world. The Paeonia lactiflora Pall. flower (PLPF) is well-known in China as an edible ornamental flower, that has been traditionally prescribed for the treatment of irregular menstruation and dysmenorrhea. However, its chemical constituents and bioactivities have not been systematically stuided. This study tentatively identified 27 compounds in aqueous and ethanol extracts of PLPF using ultra-performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry, including four monoterpene glycosides, six phenols, six tannins, ten flavonoids and a hydroxycinnamic acid amide. Online antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitor screening assays based on post-column bioactivity tests were used to screen for bioactive compounds in the extracts. Online and offline bioactivity assays showed that both extracts exhibited notable antioxidant properties against DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP, potent antiglycation capacity, and significant inhibition of tyrosinase, cyclooxygenase-2, and collagenase. Gallic acid derivatives were the main contributors to the antioxidant and antityrosinase capacity and may also inhibit cyclooxygenase-2 and collagenase, but they exhibited weak antiglycation capacity. The antiglycation effects may be due to the synergistic action of gallic acid and specific flavonoids. PLPF is a promising source of bioactive compounds for the development of natural skin health products.

Rapid identification of chemical components in Xuelian granule by UHPLC-Q-orbitrap-HRMS based on enzyme activity in vitro

BACKGROUND

Xuelian granule (XL), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula, has been used for the treatment of diabetic nephropathy for a long time as a hospital preparation. Because the active ingredients in the XL that can help to treat diabetic nephropathy are still unclear, which limits the interpretation for its pharmacological mechanism, further development and subsequent study on the material basis of its efficacy.

METHODS

In this study, a screening method based on inhibition activity against aldose reductase (AR) was employed for activity-directed chemical analysis of XL using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography combined with quadrupole-orbitrap high resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-orbitrap-HRMS) technique.

RESULTS

A total of 178 compounds, including 46 terpenes, 47 organic acids, 25 flavonoids, 29 phenylethanoid glycosides, and 31 other types, were tentatively identified from XL which might responsible for its AR inhibition activity.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study for a systematic, rapid, and accurate qualitative analysis of XL. This research provides a scientific and experimental basis for further researches on pharmacodynamics material basis and quality control of XL.

LC-MS Profiling of Kakkonto and Identification of Ephedrine as a Key Component for Its Anti-Glycation Activity

A total of 147 oral Kampo prescriptions, which are used clinically in Japan, were evaluated for their anti-glycation activity. Kakkonto demonstrated significant anti-glycation activity, prompting further analysis of its chemical constituents using LC-MS, which revealed the presence of two alkaloids, fourteen flavonoids, two but-2-enolides, five monoterpenoids, and four triterpenoid glycosides. To identify the components responsible for its anti-glycation activity, the Kakkonto extract was reacted with glyceraldehyde (GA) or methylglyoxal (MGO) and analyzed using LC-MS. In LC-MS analysis of Kakkonto reacted with GA, the peak intensity of ephedrine was attenuated, and three products from ephedrine-scavenging GA were detected. Similarly, LC-MS analysis of Kakkonto reacted with MGO revealed two products from ephedrine reacting with MGO. These results indicated that ephedrine was responsible for the observed anti-glycation activity of Kakkonto. Ephedrae herba extract, which contains ephedrine, also showed strong anti-glycation activity, further supporting ephedrine's contribution to Kakkonto's reactive carbonyl species' scavenging ability and anti-glycation activity.

Qualitative and quantitative analysis of major components of Renshen-Yangrong Pill by UPLC-LTQ/Orbitrap/MS and UPLC-MS/MS

Renshen-Yangrong Pill (RYP) is a classical traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) preparation for the treatment of asthenic symptoms, while its multiple herbal compositions bring a wide variety of unclear chemical components which seriously hinder the effective quality control and clinical practice. The present study aimed to investigate the overall chemical profile of RYP by UPLC-LTQ/Orbitrap/MS, and further obtain the quantitative distributions of representing components in the preparations. A total of 132 components in RYP including flavonoids, triterpenoid saponins, phenylpropanoids, and monoterpenoid glycosides were identified or tentatively characterized by authentic compounds or accurate masses and fragmentation, in which 52 characteristic components were selected for further quantitation by UPLC-MS/MS. The assay was validated in terms of linearity, precision, repeatability, recovery and successfully applied for the quality control of 40 batches of RYP. Hesperidin and paeoniflorin were revealed as the most abundant constituents in RYP, and the samples of different origins and dosage forms were clearly classified based on hierarchical cluster analysis. This study provided a deep insight into the chemical profiling of RYP, as well as a new approach for determining the marker compounds, which laid a valuable foundation for further investigation of potential effective components and comprehensive quality control of RYP and related preparations.

DUS evaluation of nine intersubgeneric hybrids of Paeonia lactiflora and fingerprint analysis of the chemical components in the roots

Intersubgeneric hybrids of Paeonia lactiflora (Paeonia lactiflora pall., P. lactiflora.) cover a huge variety of systems in the genus Paeonia. In recent years, many studies have confirmed that the intersubgeneric hybrids of P. lactiflora. are rich in paeoniflorin and other medicinal ingredients, however, it has always proved difficult to clarify the medicinal value of the hybrids and whether they can be used for medicinal purposes. In this study, the consistency of the plant population was evaluated through DUS evaluation, in order to clarify whether the selected research materials had stability and consistency within the population and specificity between populations. The differences between the paeoniflorin contents in the roots of the nine intersubgeneric hybrids of the P. lactiflora. varieties and two medicinal varieties were critically compared. The differences in the chemical components of the roots of nine intersubgeneric hybrids of P. lactiflora. and reference medicine substances of P. lactiflora. and Paeonia anomala subsp. veitchii (Lynch) D. Y. Hong and K. Y. Pan (Paeonia veitchii Lynch., P. veitchii.) were explored via stoichiometric and chemical fingerprint high performance liquid chromatography analyses. The results showed that there were significant differences in the chemical compositions between the intersubgeneric hybrids of P. lactiflora. and the medicinal reference materials, and the contents of paeoniflorin were elevated such that the hybrids could be used as the raw material for extraction of paeoniflorin, thus providing an opportunity to explore the medicinal value of the hybrids. This study explored the key differential components among the varieties and provides a reference and basis for the study of the medicinal value and the identification of the intersubgeneric hybrids of the P. lactiflora. varieties.

Phytochemical Study on Seeds of Paeonia clusii subsp. rhodia-Antioxidant and Anti-Tyrosinase Properties

In this study, the black fertile (BSs) and the red unfertile seeds (RSs) of the Greek endemic Paeonia clusii subsp. rhodia (Stearn) Tzanoud were studied for the first time. Nine phenolic derivatives, trans-resveratol, trans-resveratrol-4'-O-β-d-glucopyranoside, trans-ε-viniferin, trans-gnetin H, luteolin, luteolin 3'-O-β-d-glucoside, luteolin 3',4'-di-O-β-d-glucopyranoside, and benzoic acid, along with the monoterpene glycoside paeoniflorin, have been isolated and structurally elucidated. Furthermore, 33 metabolites have been identified from BSs through UHPLC-HRMS, including 6 monoterpene glycosides of the paeoniflorin type with the characteristic cage-like terpenic skeleton found only in plants of the genus Paeonia, 6 gallic acid derivatives, 10 oligostilbene compounds, and 11 flavonoid derivatives. From the RSs, through HS-SPME and GC-MS, 19 metabolites were identified, among which nopinone, myrtanal, and cis-myrtanol have been reported only in peonies' roots and flowers to date. The total phenolic content of both seed extracts (BS and RS) was extremely high (up to 289.97 mg GAE/g) and, moreover, they showed interesting antioxidative activity and anti-tyrosinase properties. The isolated compounds were also biologically evaluated. Especially in the case of trans-gnetin H, the expressed anti-tyrosinase activity was higher than that of kojic acid, which is a well-known whitening agent standard.

Paeoniflorin-free subfraction of Paeonia lactiflora Pall. shows the potential of anti-hepatic fibrosis: an integrated analysis of network pharmacology and experimental validation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Hepatic fibrosis is a major consequence of liver disease. Radix Paeoniae Rubra (RPR), the dry root of Paeonia lactiflora Pall., has a long history of clinical application in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for the treatment of liver diseases. The researches of RPR active ingredients are mainly focused on paeoniflorin. However, the functional roles of other ingredients have not been clarified sufficiently in the treatment of hepatic fibrosis with RPR.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was to figure out the anti-hepatic fibrosis potential and mechanisms of CS-4, one of the paeoniflorin-free subfraction of RPR.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

With the guide of bioassay, CS-4, a subfraction of RPR showed in vitro inhibition of hepatic stellate cell activation, was obtained using multiple chromatographic techniques. Its ingredients were determined by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. Then, the target profiles of ingredients were obtained from the HERB database, and the disease targets were collected from the DisGeNET database. Through the network pharmacology method, a protein-protein interaction network of CS-4 against hepatic fibrosis was established to analyze and excavate the potential therapeutic targets. Combined with the KEGG analysis, a series of signaling pathways were obtained, thereby validated by western blot analysis.

RESULTS

The paeoniflorin-free subfraction of RPR, CS-4, was obtained and showed the most potential anti-fibrotic effect in vitro. A total of 20 main ingredients were identified from CS-4 and considered as its active ingredients. From HERB and DisGeNET databases, 1460 potential targets of CS-4 and 1180 disease targets were obtained, respectively. The overlapped 79 targets were considered to exert the potential anti-fibrosis effect of CS-4, such as JAK2, MYC, SMAD3, and IFNG. The gene enrichment analysis revealed that classical TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway and nonclassical TGF-β/PI3K-AKT signaling pathway may be two of the main mechanisms of CS-4 against hepatic fibrosis, which supported by western blot analysis.

CONCLUSION

In this study, a paeoniflorin-free subfraction with potential anti-hepatic fibrosis activity in vitro, CS-4, was obtained from RPR. Its multiple ingredients, multiple targets, and multiple mechanisms against hepatic fibrosis were explained by network pharmacology and verified by western blot analysis to further support the clinical applications of RPR.

Rapid Identification of Paeoniae Radix and Moutan Radicis Cortex Using a SCAR Marker-Based Conventional PCR Assay

Paeoniae Radix is a herbal medicine prepared from the dried roots of Paeonia lactiflora, P. anomala subsp. veitchii, and P. japonica. Although the herbal medicines prepared from these species are morphologically similar, they have different pharmacological effects depending on how they are processed. In addition, P. japonica is more expensive than other Paeonia spp. in the Korean herbal market. Although there is a clear difference between the Korean and Chinese pharmacopeias of Paeoniae Radix, the processed roots of P. lactiflora and P. anomala subsp. veitchii are commonly used indiscriminately in the herbal market. Moreover, Paeonia suffruticosa, an allied genus of P. lactiflora, is prescribed as Moutan Radicis Cortex. Therefore, accurate taxonomic identification of plant species is vital for quality assurance. A genetic assay is a reliable tool for accurately discriminating species in processed herbal medicines. To develop a genetic assay for the identification of four Paeonia species (P. lactiflora, P. anomala subsp. veitchii, P. japonica, and P. suffruticosa), we analyzed the sequences of two DNA barcoding regions, internal transcribed spacer and rbcL. A conventional PCR assay was established in this study for simple and rapid species identification using sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) markers based on arbitrary nucleotide-containing primers. This assay was verified to be species specific and highly sensitive and could be applied to Paeonia species identification at an affordable rate.

Development of Mini-Barcode Based on Chloroplast Genome and Its Application in Metabarcoding Molecular Identification of Chinese Medicinal Material Radix Paeoniae Rubra (Chishao)

Radix Paeoniae Rubra (Chishao), a typical multi-origin Chinese medicinal material, originates from the dried roots of Paeonia lactiflora or P. veitchii. The previous study suggested that these two commonly used Chishao showed variation in their chemical compositions and clinical efficacies. Therefore, accurate identification of different Chishao species was of great significance for the guide of clinical medication, and timely treatment of patients. In this study, the chloroplast genome sequences of P. lactiflora and P. veitchii were obtained by next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology, and then the hypervariable regions were selected to design two mini-barcode candidates for species identification. Combined with DNA metabarcoding technology, we performed qualitative and quantitative analysis on the artificially mixed samples of P. lactiflora and P. veitchii and evaluated the identification ability of these mini-barcode candidates. Furtherly, the mini-barcode with good performance was applied to distinguish the Chinese patent medicine "cerebral thrombosis tablets" containing Chishao. The results indicated that the chloroplast genomes of P. lactiflora and P. veitchii were 152,750 and 152,527 bp, respectively. As published previously, they exhibited a typical quadripartite structure including a large single-copy region (LSC), a small single-copy region (SSC) and a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRs). The nucleotide polymorphism analysis revealed seven variable protein-coding regions as petL, psaI, psbJ, rpl16, ycf1b, psaC, and ndhF, and two mini-barcodes were developed from ycf1b and ndhF respectively. The result suggested that both two mini-barcodes performed well distinguishing P. lactiflora from P. veitchii. Besides, P. lactiflora was the only raw material of Chishao in all collected "cerebral thrombosis tablets" samples. In general, this study has established a method to realize the qualitative and quantitative identification of Chishao as multi-origin Chinese medicinal materials, which can be applied to Chinese patent medicines containing Chishao.

Comparative Elucidation of Age, Diameter, and "Pockmarks" in Roots of Paeonia lactiflora Pall. (Shaoyao) by Qualitative and Quantitative Methods

Paeonia lactiflora Pall. is a world-famous ornamental plant, whose roots have been used as an important traditional Chinese medicine, Shaoyao, to treat diseases for more than 1,000 years. Because of the excellent curative effect of Shaoyao, its quality has attracted wide attention, however, there is a lack of comprehensive research on the different influencing factors of quality of Shaoyao. In this study, ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q/TOF-MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography with diode-array detection (HPLC-DAD) were utilized to systematically analyze the Shaoyao of different ages, diameters and roots with "pockmarks." 60 metabolites were detected and identified from Shaoyao using the UPLC-Q/TOF-MS, of which 20 potential quality markers of dissected roots with and without "pockmarks" were selected for the first time using the orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) and the variable importance for projection (VIP) plot. Then, a selective and accurate HPLC-DAD quantitative assay has been developed for the simultaneous determination of 11 bioactive components in Shaoyao. The results showed that the total content of five monoterpene glycosides including oxypaeoniflorin, albiflorin, paeoniflorin, lactiflorin, and benzoylpaeoniflorin and six phenols including gallic acid, catechin, methyl gallate, ethyl gallate, apiopaeonoside and benzoic acid in the 3-year-old Shaoyao was higher than that of 4-year-old and 5-year-old Shaoyao. In Shaoyao of the same age, the total content of five monoterpene glycosides and six phenols decreased with an increase in diameter. In addition, regardless of whether it is a whole or a divided root, the contents of five monoterpene glycosides and six phenols in Shaoyao with "pockmarks" were higher than those of Shaoyao without "pockmarks." In summary, this work has explored several factors that might affect the quality of Shaoyao, and provide a guide for more comprehensive quality evaluation in its further production, processing, and rational utilization.

Quantitative analysis of resveratrol derivatives in the seed coats of tree peonies and their hypoglycemic activities in vitro/vivo

Tree peonies are well-known horticultural and medicinal plants. The tree peony seeds, as emerging woody oil crops, recently have attracted great attention for their metabolites and bioactivities. In this study, the phytochemicals isolated from tree peony seed coats were systematically investigated. Seven polyphenolics were separated and prepared, mainly belonging to resveratrol derivatives. There was a great variation in the seed coat polyphenolic content among eight Paeonia species, and the contents of the resveratrol trimers and dimers were significantly higher in the seed coats of Paeonia ostii than other species. Based on the HPLC fingerprint characteristics and chemometric analysis, a clear discrimination among Paeonia plants was found, including the composition patterns and contents of the constituents. Moreover, the characteristic phytochemicals (vateriferol and trans-ε-viniferin) could significantly reduce the starch-mediated levels of postprandial blood glucose in diabetic/normal mice. In addition, in vitro enzyme tests showed that the two compounds could effectively and competitively inhibit α-glucosidase, with the IC₅₀ values of 3.01 and 7.75 μM, respectively, indicating that vateriferol and trans-ε-viniferin could be therapeutic potential agents for hyperglycemia and diabetes mellitus.

A novel high-resolution monophenolase/diphenolase/radical scavenging profiling for the rapid screening of natural whitening candidates from Peaonia lactiflora root and their mechanism study with molecular docking

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The root of Paeonia lactiflora is a traditionally-used whitening medicine in China for thousands of years. Although some tyrosinase inhibitors and/or antioxidants such as 1,2,3,4,6-pentagalloylglucose, gallic acid, have been isolated and identified, their tyrosinase inhibition pathway (monophenolase or diphenolase inhibition, or both two) have not been systematically studied and the underlying tyrosinase inhibition mechanism has not been revealed yet. Moreover, the exploring of new natural tyrosinase inhibitors and antioxidants is urgently needed.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This review aimed to develop a new microplate-based high-resolution tyrosinase inhibition profiling assay and establish a furthermore triple high-resolution monophenolase/diphenolase/radical scavenging profiling for accelerating identification bioactive compounds from complicated plant extract.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The targeted isolation and structure elucidation were performed with high-performance liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry and preparative high-performance liquid chromatography. It allows to be a proof of concept with the root of Paeonia lactiflora crude extract as a natural whitening herbal drug.

RESULTS

The result showed that galloylpaeoniflorin specifically inhibited monophenolase activity. While 1,2,3,4,6-pentagalloylglucose, gallic acid and catechin demonstrated the inhibition towards both monophenolase and diphenolase. Among them, 1,2,3,4,6-pentagalloylglucose can inhibit monophenolase activity was reported for the first time. In addition, antioxidant properties were attributed to catechin, 1,2,3,4,6-pentagalloylglucose and gallic acid. Due to its low content and complicated configuration in the root of Paeonia lactiflora, a new potential tyrosinase inhibitor and radical scavenger which tentatively identified as hexagalloylglucose by high-resolution MS was still need further verification. What's more, the molecular docking unveiled that bioactive enzymatic inhibitors mainly interacted with amino acid catalytic residues of tyrosinase via H-bonds and van der wals, which may be helpful to understand their inhibition mechanisms with tyrosinase in the skin whitening.

CONCLUSIONS

The platform provided a promising and efficient strategy for the rapid screening of whitening active components from natural sources.

A multi-evaluating strategy for Weikangling capsules: Chemical profiling, fingerprinting combined with quantitative analysis, quantity transfer, and dissolution curve

Weikangling capsules (WKLCs), a Chinese patent medicine consisting of 8 Chinese drugs, have been widely used in clinic to treat gastrointestinal diseases for more than 30 years. The current "Chinese Pharmacopoeia" (2020 Edition, ChP2020) uses paeoniflorin content (≥ 1.0 mg per capsule) as the standard of quality control, but it is insufficient to evaluate the overall quality of WKLCs. An efficient and economic method for quality control is urgently needed to ensure the quality consistency and clinical effects of WKLCs. Herein, a systematic and reliable method for the rapid analysis of chemical components in WKLCs was established for the first time based on ultra-performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS). A total of 115 components covering 7 herbs in WKLCs were preliminarily identified by comparison with standard substances or literature. To evaluate the quality of 26 batches of WKLCs, a new method of fingerprinting combined with quantitative analysis was established, and 16 common peaks were selected to establish the fingerprint similarity model (similarity>0.90). Simultaneously, the contents of albiflorin, paeoniflorin, dactylorhin A, militarine, and glycyrrhizic acid were determined to be 0.82 ± 0.22, 2.09 ± 0.24, 1.15 ± 0.40, 3.73 ± 0.76 and 0.99 ± 0.20 mg/capsule, respectively. The transfer rates and dissolution curves of the five compounds were successfully detected in WKLCs, and the average transfer rates were 67.2%, 33.0%, 68.3%, 54.7%, and 33.7%, respectively. Notably, the dissolution profiles of different manufacturers presented remarkable differences in pH 1.2 hydrochloric acid solution. This method not only qualitatively identified the chemical components of Chinese patent medicines at the microlevel but also evaluated the quality consistency between batches at the macrolevel, which provided a comprehensive reference for the quality consistency of Chinese patent medicines between batches.

Cleavage rules of mass spectrometry fragments and rapid identification of chemical components of Radix Paeoniae Alba using UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS

INTRODUCTION

Radix Paeoniae Alba (RPA) presents several pharmacological effects, including analgesia, liver protection, and toxicity reduction. RPA consists mostly of monoterpenes and their glycosides, tannins, flavonoids, and organic acids, with monoterpenes being the main active pharmaceutical ingredients.

OBJECTIVE

To establish an effective method for rapid classification and identification of the main monoterpenes, flavonoids, and organic acids in RPA.

METHODS

We used ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS) and data post-processing technology to rapidly classify and identify the monoterpenoids, flavonoids, and organic acids in RPA. We also summarised the diagnostic product ions and neutral losses of monoterpenoids, flavonoids, and organic acids in RPA reported in the literature.

RESULTS

We identified 24 components, namely 18 monoterpenoids, one flavonoid, and five organic acids.

CONCLUSION

In this study, we analysed the chemically active pharmaceutical ingredients and assessed the quality of RPA. In addition, we demonstrated that UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS can be used to qualitatively classify and identify the variety of chemical components of traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) to a certain extent. Moreover, we confirmed that mass spectrometry can be used to identify the components of TCMs.

Identification and Characterization of Chemical Constituents in HuaTanJiangQi Capsules by UPLC-QTOF-MS Method

BACKGROUND

HuaTanJiangQi (HTJQ) is a classical Chinese medicine compound preparation, mainly used for clinically treating and improving chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in China.

OBJECTIVE

To establish a rapid and efficient analytical method for the identification and characterization of chemical constituents in HTJQ based on ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS).

METHOD

UPLC-QTOF-MS was used to rapidly separate and identify the chemical constituents of HTJQ via a gradient elution system. The accurate mass data of the protonated and deprotonated molecules and fragment ions were detected in positive and negative ion modes. Compounds of HTJQ can be identified and assigned by analyzing accurate mass measurements and ion fragmentation mechanisms and comparing them with a chemical compositions database.

RESULTS

A total of 61 compounds in HTJQ were separated and identified, including 14 flavonoids, 16 organic acids, four isothiocyanic acids, eight butyl phthalides, two alkaloids, 10 terpenoids, four methoxyphenols and furanocoumarins, and three other compounds. The chemical compounds of HTJQ were identified and elucidated comprehensively for the first time.

CONCLUSIONS

A rapid, accurate, and efficient UPLC-QTOF-MS method has been developed for the identification of chemical components and applied to simultaneously evaluate the quality and effectiveness of HTJQ.

HIGHLIGHTS

Systematic identification of chemical constituents in HTJQ can provide a scientific and reasonable basis for the application of HTJQ in the clinical treatment of COPD.

Chemical Profile Assessment and Potential Bioactive Component Screening of a Chinese Patent Herbal Drug Yi-Shen-Hua-Shi Granule

Yi-Shen-Hua-Shi (YSHS) Granule is a well-known patented herbal drug for treating chronic glomerulonephritis (CGN) in China. Its chemical compositions and anti-CGN components are not fully understood. This study aimed to establish the chemical profile and to identify the anti-CGN components of YSHS Granule. For these purposes, a HPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS method was developed. A total of 105 peaks were detected in the mass spectrum of the Granule. Of these, 99 compounds were tentatively identified as terpenoids, flavonoids, coumarins, alkaloids, phenols, and other types of compounds, and 15 were further identified with reference substances. To screen bioactive compounds, a cell membrane immobilized chromatography (CMIC) method was used. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-challenged rat glomerular mesangial cells (HBZY-1) were incubated with YSHS Granule (100 μg/mL), and the binding components to the cell membrane were extracted and analyzed using the established HPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS method. Seven potential bioactive components that bound to HBZY-1 cell membranes were detected and identified as calycosin-7- O-β-D-glucoside, 6-gingerol, naringin, ginsenoside Re, poncirin, liquiritigenin, and isoliquiritigenin. The outcomes of the present study provide a chemical basis for clinical use of the Granule in managing CGN, and provide quality control markers for the Granule’s production and use.

Single Standard Substance for the Simultaneous Determination of Eleven Components in the Extract of Paeoniae Radix Alba (Root of Paeonia lactiflora Pall.)

Paeoniae Radix Alba (PRA), an herbal drug produced from the root of Paeonia lactiflora Pall., is widely used in many herbal medicine prescriptions/preparations. Since the pharmacological effects of PRA come from multiple chemical components, it is important to establish a method for the determination of those components in PRA extracts with simple operation and low cost, which is more suitable to evaluate the quality of PRA extracts and optimize the extraction process. This work introduced the quantitative analysis of multicomponents with a single-marker (QAMS) method for the simultaneous determination of eleven bioactive components in PRA extracts, including gallic acid, oxypaeoniflorin, catechin, albiflorin, paeoniflorin, ethyl gallate, galloylpaeoniflorin, pentagalloylglucose, benzoic acid, benzoylpaeoniflorin, and paeonol. In the QAMS method established based on high performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection, only the reference substance of paeoniflorin was needed, and the other ten components were determined based on their relative correction factors (RCFs) to paeoniflorin. Moreover, the repeatability and robustness of the RCFs were studied with different column temperatures, detection wavelengths, flow rates, column types, and instruments. In method validation, good linearity (r > 0.999), stability, repeatability (RSD < 1.9%), and accuracy (recoveries within 96.1%-105.5%) were shown. Sample analyses showed that the QAMS method was consistent with the conventional external standard method. The established method provided a comprehensive, efficient, and low-cost tool for the routine quality evaluation of PRA extracts.

A strategy for practical authentication of medicinal plants in traditional Chinese medicine prescription, paeony root in ShaoYao-GanCao decoction as a case study

Authentication of Chinese medicine materials in prescriptions is extremely difficult due to the complicated chemical matrix. A strategy integrating in-depth profiling, chemical marker selection, and selected detection was established and exemplarily applied to authenticate paeony root in ShaoYao-GanCao decoction. First, an ultra-performance liquid chromatography/linear trap quadrupole-Orbitrap method was developed to probe the chemical compositions of the decoction. Second, 20 batches of decoctions prepared from white paeony root and red paeony root were compared by a metabolomics method, and multistep chemometrics analysis distinguished the chemical markers. Third, an ultra-performance liquid chromatography/QDa-selected ion monitoring method was developed to authenticate the paeony root in decoctions. As a result, 161 compounds were characterized, including 84 triterpene saponins, 42 flavonoids, and 10 monoterpenes. Four chemical markers and paeoniflorin were successfully screened out as chemical markers for white paeony root. The selected ion monitoring method easily differentiated authentic decoction (prepared from white paeony root) from fraud decoction (prepared from red paeony root) by monitoring the above five chemical markers. In conclusion, the strategy was proved effective in authentication of paeony root in ShaoYao-GanCao decoction, and it can also be applied to authenticate other Chinese medicine materials in prescriptions, which will greatly avail the quality enhancement of prescriptions.

Anti-inflammatory effect of traditional Chinese medicine preparation Penyanling on pelvic inflammatory disease

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Penyanling is made up of Smilacis Glabrae Rhizoma (SG, from Smilar glabra Roxb.), Angelicae Sinensis Radix (AS, from Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels), Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma (SM, from Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge), Sargentodoxae Caulis (SC, from Sargentodoxa cuneata (Oliv.) Rehd.et Wils.), Linderae Radix (LR, from Lindera aggregata (Sims) Kosterm.), Paeoniae Radix Rubra (PR, from Paeonia lactiflora Pall.), Sparganii Rhizoma (SR, from Sparganium stoloniferum (Graebn.) Buch.-Ham.), Corydalis Rhizoma (CoR, from Corydalis yanhusuo W. T. Wang), Cyperi Rhizoma (CyR, from Cyperus rotundus Linn.), Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma (GR, from Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch.), and Patrinia Scabiosaefolia (PS, from Patrinia scabiosaefolia Fisch. ex Trev.) recorded in Chinese Pharmacopoeia. It has been used on pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) for more than twenty years.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was carried out to illustrate its pharmacological action and clarify its substantial composition.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The anti-inflammatory effects of Penyanling were studied on a PID rat model and a lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-stimulated THP-1 cell line. Histological changes and levels of inflammatory factors in the uterine tube of the PID rat were examined. Levels of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) in the nuclear of THP-1 cells and NF-κB, IκB-α, and FPR2 in the cytoplasm were tested by Western blot analysis. Substances within Penyanling were scanned with liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time of flight-mass spectrometry (LC-Q-TOF-MS). The contents of total flavonoids, phenolics, and saponins were quantified.

RESULTS

The anti-inflammatory effects of Penyanling were observed on PID rats, such as suppressing the infiltrations of lymphocytes and neutrophils in the uterine tube, decreasing the release of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-1, and promoting the production of lipoxin A₄ (LXA₄). On the other hand, Penyanling regulated the activity of NF-κB signal pathway on the LPS-stimulated THP-1 cell line, which suggested the potential mechanism of its anti-inflammatory effect. Besides, it could promote the expression of formyl peptide receptor 2 (FPR2), which suggested its effect on enhancing the resolution of inflammation. Seventy-six substances were identified by their accurate molecular weights, mass fragment patterns, retention times, and standards if available. Most of these substances were flavonoids, phenolics, saponins, and alkaloids. The contents of total flavonoids, phenolics, and saponins within Penyanling were 0.186, 1.371, and 4.321 mg/mL, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Penyanling showed an anti-inflammatory effect on PID, and its potential mechanism involved suppressing NF-κB signal pathway and promoting the resolution of inflammation. The main substances within it were flavonoids, phenolics, saponins, and alkaloids.

Analysis of Chemical Components in the Roots of Eight Intersubgeneric Hybrids of Paeonia

Paeonia cultivars are famous ornamental plants, and some of them are also traditional Chinese medicinal resources. Intersubgeneric hybrids of Paeonia (IHPs) are formed by the hybridization of herbaceous peony (Paeonia lactiflora) and tree peony (Paeonia×suffruticosa or lutea hybrid tree peony). The phenotypic characteristics of IHPs are similar to those of herbaceous peony, and their root systems are large and vigorous. However, their medicinal value has not been reported yet. In this study, the roots of eight IHP samples were analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (HPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS). A total of 18 compounds were identified, including phenols, paeonols, monoterpene glycosides, and tannins. The contents of monoterpene glycosides and tannins in IHPs were higher than herbaceous peony and tree peony, exceeding 44.76 mg/g DW and 11.50 mg/g DW, respectively. Three IHPs, 'Prairie Charm', 'Garden Treasure', and 'Yellow Emperor', with more types and a higher content of medicinal compounds, were screened out by cluster analysis. These IHPs have considerable potential for the development of medicinal resources.

Total glucosides of paeony: A review of its phytochemistry, role in autoimmune diseases, and mechanisms of action

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Paeoniae Radix Alba (PRA, called baishao in China), the root of Paeonia lactiflora Pall., has shown a rich medicinal value for more than 2000 years. PRA is used in local medicine and traditional medicine for autoimmune diseases associated with inflammation. At present, total glucosides of paeony (TGP), the main active ingredient of PRA, has been developed into a preparation for the treatment of autoimmune diseases, as TGP exhibits the effect of regulating immunity, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

TGP was developed and applied to inflammation-related autoimmune diseases in modern clinical practice. Based on its application in traditional prescriptions, this article reviews PRA's botany and phytochemistry (including its extraction process and quality control), and discusses the clinical application and pharmacological research of TGP as an anti-inflammatory drug from the perspective of ethnopharmacology. Additionally, we review modern pharmacological and molecular-target research on TGP and discuss the mechanisms of TGP in treating autoimmune diseases. Through a systematic literature review, we also highlight the clinical efficacy of TGP in the treatment of immune diseases, and provide a reference for the continued scientific development and quality control of TGP so that its wider application and clinical value can be fully realized.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Literature search was conducted through the Web of Science, Baidu Scholar, ScienceDirect, PubMed, CNKI, and WanFang DATA using the keywords "Total glucosides of paeony", "Paeonia lactiflora Pall. ", "Paeonia veitchii Lynch", "Paeoniae Radix Alba or white peony", "Paeoniae Radix Rubra or red peony", "Paeoniflorin", "Albiflorin", "Autoimmune diseases", and their combinations. In addition, information was collected from relevant textbooks, reviews, and documents.

RESULTS

Approximately 15 compounds have been identified in TGP, of which paeoniflorin and albiflorin are the most common constituents. In recent years, studies have found that TGP and its main chemical components are effective in the treatment of autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, oral lichen planus, and Sjogren's syndrome. TGP has a variety of pharmacological effects related to PRA traditional effects, including anti-organ-damage, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant, cardiovascular, and nervous-system protection. Previously published reports on TGP treatment of autoimmune diseases have shown that TGP regulates intracellular pathways, such as the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) signaling pathways. However, there is no standardized preparation method for TGP, and there is insufficient quality control of formulations. Many related pharmacological studies have not tested TGP components, and the validity of such pharmacological results requires further verification.

CONCLUSIONS

Modern pharmacological research on TGP is based on the traditional usage of PRA, and its folk medicinal value in the treatment of autoimmune diseases has now been verified. In particular, TGP has been developed into a formulation used clinically for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. The combination of TGP capsules and chemicals to treat autoimmune diseases has the effect of increasing efficacy and reducing toxicity. Based on further research on its preparation, quality control, and mechanisms of action, TGP is expected to eventually play a greater role in the treatment of autoimmune diseases.

Efficacy, Chemical Constituents, and Pharmacological Actions of Radix Paeoniae Rubra and Radix Paeoniae Alba

Radix Paeoniae Rubra and Radix Paeoniae Alba are the different characteristic forms of Paeonia lactiflora Pall. They are widely used as traditional Chinese medicines in clinical practices. This study analyzes the development history, efficacy, chemical compositions, and pharmacological effects of Radix Paeoniae Rubra and Radix Paeoniae Alba, and explores the causes of the similarities and differences of these two amalgams. It provides a basis for the clinical application of these two Chinese medicinal materials, and lays a foundation for further study of the pharmacological effects and the quality identification of Paeonia lactiflora Pall as it applies to traditional Chinese medicine.

Insights into the Phytochemical Composition and Bioactivities of Seeds from Wild Peony Species

Peony is an important medicinal and ornamental plant widely cultivated in the world. Its seeds as a functional food source have attracted much more attention in recent years, and they are rich in monoterpene glycosides and phenolic compounds. To assess the application value of wild peony seeds, the main chemical composition and content, such as total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), total flavanol content (TAC), and α and γ tocopherol content, of the seeds from 12 species and 2 subspecies were systematically explored in the present study. Four different antioxidant assays (DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and HRSA), antibacterial, and antifungal assays were also performed using various in vitro biochemical methods. The results showed that the seeds of P. delavayi, P. obovata. subsp. obovata, and P. rockii. subsp. rockii had a high content of TPC, TFC, and TAC, respectively. Twenty-five individual chemical compounds were qualitatively and quantitatively measured by HPLC-MS, with paeoniflorin being the most abundant compound in all samples. P. mairei was grouped individually into a group via hierarchical cluster analysis according to its relatively highest monoterpene glycosides and TPC content. This work has provided a basis for the development and utilization of seeds for the selection of wild peony species of dietary interest.

Characterization of phytochemicals in the roots of wild herbaceous peonies from China and screening for medicinal resources

Paeonia Radix Rubra (PRR) is a very common traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). The roots of Paeonia lactiflora and Paeonia anomala subsp. veitchii are used for the production of PRR. However, other species of section Paeonia in China are also used to produce PRR. The roots of section Paeonia from 20 populations of seven species and two subspecies in China were analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (HPLC-Q-TOF- MS). A total of 21 metabolites were identified, including nine monoterpene glycosides, seven tannins, three phenols, one paeonol and one flavonoid. There were significant differences in the composition and content of metabolites among different populations. The relative contents of monoterpene glycosides and tannins were generally higher in most samples. Cluster analysis showed that 20 populations could be divided into four groups. Among them, the populations of P. lactiflora and Paeonia mairei were clustered together in one group. The content of paeoniflorin in P. lactiflora was high (>22.20 mg g^-1, dry weight, the same below), and the content of lactiflorin in P. mairei (>17.50 mg g^-1) was significantly higher than in other species (<2.30 mg g^-1). The monoterpene glycoside content in P. mairei (>51.60 mg g^-1) was significantly higher than in other species (<43.40 mg g^-1), suggesting that it could be useful medicinal germplasm for the development of monoterpene glycosides. In addition, some populations of Paeonia emodi, Paeonia sterniana and P. mairei may also be used as potential germplasm resources for use in PRR. Genetic and environmental factors resulted in differences in the composition and content of metabolites in different populations of the same species. Therefore, it is necessary to carefully consider the origin of Paeonia germplasm when selecting medicinal materials to be used as resources for the production of PRR.

Comprehensive comparison of the anti-inflammatory activity and chemical consistency of traditional Chinese medicine formula granules with Ge-Gen decoction as a representative sample

Traditional Chinese medicine formula granules (TCMFGs), an advanced dosage form of traditional Chinese medicine, are entering the market on a large scale. However, little attention has been paid to the simultaneous efficacy assessment and quality control of this advanced dosage form. In this study, a comprehensive comparison of the pharmacological activity and chemical consistency of TCMFGs from different manufacturers was performed. Ge-Gen decoction (GGD) samples were used as the target TCMFG. The in vitro anti-inflammatory effects among different types of GGDs indicate that all of them showed different abilities to reduce the lipopolysaccharide-activated production of nitric oxide, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α. The results from a dimethylbenzene-induced inflammation model in mice indicated that the nine samples in this study showed significant in vivo anti-inflammatory effects. Qualitative and quantitative analyses were performed by multiwavelength ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection and electrospray ionization with quadrupole time-of-flight-tandem mass spectrometry. To visually interpret the differences in the chemical materials, a scatter plot analysis was performed. According to the scatter plot analysis, nine compounds were evaluated as important contributors to the differences. This is the first report of TCMFGs on the basis of the spectrum-effect consistency.

Isolation of Strong Antioxidants from Paeonia Officinalis Roots and Leaves and Evaluation of Their Bioactivities

Paeonia officinalis extracts from leaves and roots were tested for their antioxidant potential using in vitro chemical (Folin-Ciocalteu, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH), 2,2′-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS), oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), hydroxyl radical antioxidant capacity (HORAC), hydroxyl radical scavenging capacity HOSC)) and cellular antioxidant activity (CAA) assays. Leaf extracts were stronger antioxidants than root extracts, while methanol was a more effective solvent than water in chemical assays. However, the selected water extract of leaves was a stronger antioxidant in CAA than the methanol extract (0.106 vs. 0.046 µmol quercetin equivalents/mg). Twenty compounds were identified by ultra performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time-of-flight (UPLC-Q-TOF) mass spectrometer, while on-line screening of their antioxidant capacity by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a DPPH^•-scavenging detector revealed that gallic acid derivatives are the major peony antioxidants. Root water and leaf methanol extracts inhibited α-amylase in a dose dependent manner. The IC₅₀ value for the strongest inhibitor, the methanol extract of leaves, was 1.67 mg/mL. In addition, the cytotoxicity assessment of extracts using human Caco-2 cells demonstrated that none of them possessed cytotoxic effects.

Comprehensive metabolic profile analysis of the root bark of different species of tree peonies (Paeonia Sect. Moutan)

Tree peonies (Paeonia Sect. Moutan) are well-known for their medicinal and ornamental uses but most wild species in the Moutan section are endangered. The comprehensive metabolomics evaluation of tree peonies is essential to distinguish different species and to identify undescribed compounds, thereby elucidating the diversity of their metabolites and discovering potential active ingredients. In this study, the metabolome variations of root barks of nine species and their varieties collected from one botanical garden after years of localization were systematically investigated. A digital database of specialized metabolites was established to improve feature identification or annotation and various bio- and cheminformatics tools were employed to analyse and visualize the profiled metabolomic data. As a result, 384 compounds were identified or annotated, including various monoterpene glycosides, flavonoids, phenols, terpenoids and steroids, tannins, stilbenes and others. All samples were clearly divided into two subsections: Vaginatae and Delavayanae. The distribution and abundance of metabolites were also analysed and discussed in order to find potential biomarkers in different wild tree peonies.

Simultaneous LC-MS quantification of anthocyanins and non-anthocyanin phenolics from blueberries with widely divergent profiles and biological activities

A sensitive and straightforward LC-IT-TOF-MS method was validated for the profiling and simultaneous quantification of anthocyanins, flavan-3-ols, flavonols, phenolic acids, and resveratrol in blueberry genotypes with fruit color ranging from deep purple (Vaccinium angustifolium) to various shades of pink (crosses of V. corymbosum, V. darrowii, and V. ashei). Standard calibration curves were linear for all analytes with correlation coefficients >0.99. The relative standard deviation for intra- and inter-day precision was lower than 10%. The method allowed an easy and selective identification and quantification of phenolics in blueberries with divergent profiles. The in vitro antioxidant assay results were strongly correlated with total phenolics and total anthocyanin content. Lowbush blueberry extracts (50 μg/mL) reduced ROS and NO production, and inhibited the transcription of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-6β, COX2, iNOS, and IL-6 in the in vitro assays at much lower concentrations than pink fruited berries (250 μg/mL).

Advancement in the chemical analysis of Paeoniae Radix (Shaoyao)

Paeoniae Radix Alba (baishao or white peony root) and Paeoniae Radix Rubra (chishao or red peony root) are two highly valuable traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) usually indicated for painful conditions, menstrual disorders and viral infections. These two TCMs are collectively referred to as shaoyao (Paeoniae Radix) due to their close origins and similar chemical compositions. Modern research indicates that monoterpene glycosides, polyphenols and paeonols are the three main types of compounds related to the pharmacological activities of Paeoniae Radix. This review summarizes recent advances in the chemical analysis of Paeoniae Radix and the related traditional Chinese medicine formulas/preparations, including methods used for sample pretreatment, qualitative analysis, quantitative analysis and biological sample analysis. More than 120 papers are discussed in this review, focusing on the chemical analysis of Paeoniae Radix, and various analytical techniques (such as HPLC, LC-MS, IR, near IR and quantitative NMR), as well as their advantages/disadvantages, are described. It is our hope that this paper can provide necessary information for improving the quality evaluation methods currently available for Paeoniae Radix and offer a scientific basis for the future in-depth study of the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of Paeoniae Radix.

Impact of different post-harvest processing methods on the chemical compositions of peony root

The impact of key processing steps such as boiling, peeling, drying and storing on chemical compositions and morphologic features of the produced peony root was investigated in detail by applying 15 processing methods to fresh roots of Paeonia lactiflora and then monitoring contents of eight main components, as well as internal root color. The results showed that low temperature (4 °C) storage of fresh roots for approximately 1 month after harvest resulted in slightly increased and stable content of paeoniflorin, which might be due to suppression of enzymatic degradation. This storage also prevented roots from discoloring, facilitating production of favorable bright color roots. Boiling process triggered decomposition of polygalloylglucoses, thereby leading to a significant increase in contents of pentagalloylglucose and gallic acid. Peeling process resulted in a decrease of albiflorin and catechin contents. As a result, an optimized and practicable processing method ensuring high contents of the main active components in the produced root was developed.