Rapid identification of three species of Schisandra chinensis based on UPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS technique and characteristic fragments

Abstract

Rationale: Schisandra chinensis is a traditional Chinese medicine in China. Based on the ultra-performance liquid chromatography quadrupole-Orbitrap-mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS) technique, we rapidly identified the components of Northern Schisandra chinensis(SS), Schisandrae Chinensis Fructus processed with vinegar(CS), Wine-processed Schisandra chinensis(JS), and distinguished the differences of the chemical composition of the three Schisandra chinensis before and after processing, to provide a reference for rational clinical use. Methods: In this study, used the UPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS and data post-processing techniques. Based on the literature summarizing the fragmentation information of possible characteristic fragments(CFs) and related neutral losses (NLs)of lignans, organic acids, flavonoids, terpenoids and other components of Schisandra chinensis, then by comparing with the mass spectrum data obtained from the detection, to achieve rapid classification and identification of SS, CS and JS. Results: In this study, 51, 41 and 42 compounds were successfully identified from SS, CS and JS, respectively. The composition of Schisandra chinensis differs before and after processing, the realization of the distinction between the three traditional Chinese medicines. Conclusions: In this study, to distinguish SS, CS and JS in terms of chemical composition differences. It can achieve the rapid classification and identification of different processing technology of Schisandra chinensis and provide a reference for safer and rational clinical application.