Screening of quality markers of Jie-Geng decoction based on integration of multiple methods

Abstract


 
 
 
 Purpose: To screen quality markers of Jie-Geng decoction (JGD) through multiple analytical methods and integration of network pharmacology and HPLC-ELSD fingerprint.
 Methods: Network pharmacology was used to screen the potential bioactive components of JGD. Simultaneously, HPLC-ELSD fingerprint combined with multiple analytical methods was carried out for determination of the chemical compounds in JGD. Subsequently, quality markers for identification of quality variations in JGD were established through the integration of results from network pharmacology and fingerprinting, in combination with similarity analysis, hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA), and orthogonal partial least squares discrimination analysis (OPLS-DA).
 Results: A total of 110 compounds responsible for the regulation of 36 target genes in airway inflammation and cough were identified through network pharmacology. Furthermore, 37 characteristic components were obtained through fingerprints. Similarity analysis revealed that the main bioactive compounds in the various batches of JGD were similar. Also, HCA and OPLS-DA analyses were performed to identify the potential quality markers. Glycyrrhizic acid, liquiritin, and platycodin D were selected as quality markers, based on effectiveness, measurability, and distinguishability. Furthermore, quality variations in JGD arose mostly from variations in origin of gancao.
 Conclusion: The screened quality markers for JGD are useful in evaluation of factors that affect the quality and variation in JGD. The concept of integration of network pharmacology and fingerprint with multiple analytical methods might be a novel strategy for quality control of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formulations.