CC BY 4.0 · Pharmaceutical Fronts 2024; 06(02): e155-e182
DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1787123
Original Article

Pharmacological Material Basis of Chushi Weiling Decoction and Its Mechanism in Eczema and Herpes Zoster Based on UPLC-Q-TOF-MS, GC-MS, and Network Pharmacology

Junxuan Ren
1   National Key Lab. of Lead Druggability Research, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd., China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
,
Yan Wang
1   National Key Lab. of Lead Druggability Research, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd., China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
,
Qinlin Li
1   National Key Lab. of Lead Druggability Research, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd., China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
,
Danwei Ouyang
1   National Key Lab. of Lead Druggability Research, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd., China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
› Author Affiliations
 

Abstract

Chushi Weiling Decoction (CWD) is a classic prescription in traditional Chinese medicine used to treat dampness-heat skin diseases. However, the material composition of CWD and its therapeutic mechanism remained largely unknown. This study aimed to investigate the pharmacological material basis of CWD and their potential therapeutic effects using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and network pharmacology. In this work, UPLC-Q-TOF-MS and GC-MS technologies were used to identify the main components of CWD. The UPLC-Q-TOF MS analysis was performed on a Thermo-Accucore aQ C18 (100 mm × 2.1 mm, 2.6 μm; ThermoFisher, United States) with a mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile–0.1% formic acid aqueous solution in MSE mode. The GC-MS analysis was performed on an HP-5MS UI (0.25 mm × 30 m × 0.25 μm; Agilent, United States) of headspace injection. Treatment mechanisms of eczema and herpes zoster were explored using network pharmacology methods and enrichment analysis. Our data showed that there were 194 compounds identified using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS and 92 compounds identified using GC-MS. The mass spectrometric fragmentation rules of terpenoids, flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, phenolic acid esters, and alkaloids in CWD were summarized. Network pharmacology provided targets and pathways, and molecular docking indicated that alisol J 23-acetate, kaempferol, anomalin, and cinnamaldehyde tend to combine with target proteins in a good case at a low level of binding energy. Given the above, this study provides a reference for the material basis of CWD, and suggests that CWD may play a therapeutic role in eczema and herpes zoster by (1) anti-inflammatory, antiviral, mediating immune response; and (2) regulating steroid metabolism.


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Introduction

Chushi Weiling Decoction (CWD) is one of the first batches of 100 classic prescriptions released by the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine.[1] It is a classic prescription recorded in Chen Shigong's “Orthodox Manual of External Diseases” of the Ming Dynasty and Wu Qian's “The Golden Mirror of Medicine” of the Qing Dynasty, which is used to treat dampness-heat skin diseases such as “damp sore,” “fire erysipelas,” and “shingles.”[2] [3] [4] Modern Chinese medicine believes that “damp sore” refers to eczema, while “fire erysipelas” and “shingles” refer to skin diseases such as herpes zoster.[5] [6] Eczema and herpes zoster are common skin lesions. Eczema is an inflammatory skin lesion caused by various internal and external factors, while herpes zoster is an infectious skin disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. These two diseases have different pathologies with similar characteristics such as causing rash, blisters, erosion, exudation, itching, and pain in the affected area. Modern traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) regards CWD as the main prescription for treating eczema and herpes zoster in clinical practice, which can achieve good therapeutic effects.[7] [8] [9]

The entire recipe of CWD consists of 14 Chinese medicinal materials, including Atractylodis Rhizoma (Cangzhu), Magnoliae Officinalis Cortex (Houpo), Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium (Chenpi), Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma (Gancao), Alismatis Rhizoma (Zexie), Poria (Fuling), Polyporus (Zhuling), Cinnamomi Cortex (Rougui), Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma (Baizhu), Gardeniae Fructus (Zhizi), Akebiae Caulis (Mutong), Saposhnikoviae Radix (Fangfeng), Talcum (Huashi), and Junci Medulla (Dengxincao). The information and abbreviations of herbs are provided in [Table 1]. Among them, Cangzhu is the monarch drug, which can strengthen the spleen and dry dampness; Houpo, Chenpi, and other medicinal herbs are used as ministerial drugs to promote diuresis, promote spleen function, and remove dampness; Rougui is used as an adjuvant drug to promote Yang and Qi circulation; Gancao is a conductant drug that can clear heat and detoxify.[10] [11] [12]

Table 1

Medical information of CWD

TCM name

Product name

Abbreviation

Origin

Lot number

Place of production

Manufacturer

Atractylodis Rhizoma

Cangzhu (stir fried with bran)

CZ

Atractylodes Lancea (Thunb.) DC.

220361341

Jiangsu

Beijing Kangmei Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

Magnoliae Officinalis Cortex

Houpo (processed with ginger juice)

HP

Magnolia officinalis Rehd. et Wils.

220301171

Sichuan

Kangmei Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium

Chenpi

CP

Citrus reticulata cv. Chachiensis

220403921

Guangdong

Kangmei Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma

Gancao

GC

Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch

210731

Xinjiang

Shanghai Kangqiao Traditional Chinese Medicine Slices Co., Ltd.

Alismatis Rhizoma

Zexie

ZX

Alisma orientale (Samuel) Juz.

220400501

Fujian

Kangmei Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

Poria

Fuling

FL

Poria cocos (Schw.) Wolf

210428

Anhui

Shanghai Kangqiao Traditional Chinese Medicine Slices Co., Ltd.

Polyporus

Zhuling

ZL

Polyporus umbellatus (Pers.) Fr.

220107

Shaanxi

Shanghai Hongqiao Traditional Chinese Medicine Slices Co., Ltd.

Cinnamomi Cortex

Rougui

RG

Cinnamomum cassia Presl

210203

Guangxi

Shanghai Kangqiao Traditional Chinese Medicine Slices Co., Ltd.

Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma

Baizhu (stir fried with soil)

BZ

Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz.

211003181

Zhejiang

Kangmei Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

Gardeniae Fructus

Zhizi (ground)

ZZ

Gardenia jasminoides Ellis.

211028

Jiangxi

Shanghai Hongqiao Traditional Chinese Medicine Slices Co., Ltd.

Akebiae Caulis

Mutong

MT

Akebia quinata (Houtt.) Decne.

20220701

Anhui

Guangdong Huiqun Traditional Chinese Medicine Slices Co., Ltd.

Saposhnikoviae Radix

Fangfeng

FF

Saposhnikovia divaricata (Trucz.) Schischk.

211117

Inner Mongolia

Shanghai Hongqiao Traditional Chinese Medicine Slices Co., Ltd.

Talcum

Huashi

HS

[Mg3(Si4O10)(OH)2]

1711213

Hebei

China Shineway Pharmaceutical Group Co., Ltd.

Junci Medulla

Dengxincao

DXC

Juncus effusus L.

220304

Jiangsu

Shanghai Hongqiao Traditional Chinese Medicine Slices Co., Ltd.

Abbreviation: CWD, Chushi Weiling Decoction.


Modern pharmacology and medical research have shown that Chinese medicinal herbs such as Cangzhu, Houpo, and Chenpi have therapeutic effects on eczema and herpes zoster. The terpenoids, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds from these herbs have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antiviral effects.[13] [14] [15] However, the material composition and therapeutic mechanism of CWD were still unclear. This study used ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) techniques to analyze the composition of CWD and identify its main components. In addition, based on network pharmacology, the possible mechanism of the treatment of eczema and herpes zoster with CWD was explored. The results of this study provide a theoretical basis for clinical medication and quality control of CWD.


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Material and Methods

Materials and Reagents

All 14 Chinese medicinal materials were purchased from real estate areas or main production areas ([Table 1]), and all complied with the relevant regulations of the Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2020 Edition Part 1.[16]

The reference standards cinnamaldehyde (98.0%, lot:7713), hesperidin (95.3%, lot:110721-201115), naringin (98.0%, lot:13822), gardenoside (98.0%, lot:15277), calceolarioside B (98.0%, lot:9644), 5-O-methylvisammioside (98.0%, lot:14863), and prim-O-glucosylcimifugin (98.0%, lot:14585) were purchased from the China Institute for the Control of Food and Drug Products. Liquid chromatography-MS (LC-MS)-grade acetonitrile (ThermoFisher, United States), methanol (ThermoFisher, United States), formic acid (ThermoFisher, United States), and deionized water prepared by a Millipore Alpha-Q water purification system (Millipore, United States) were used as the mobile phase for the chromatographic separation. Other reagents were of analytical grade.


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Preparation of Standards and Samples

Preparation of Standards and Samples of UPLC-Q-TOF-MS

All reference materials were dissolved in methanol to prepare solutions of cinnamaldehyde (12.4 μg/mL), hesperidin (198 μg/mL), naringin (26 μg/mL), gardenoside (31 μg/mL), calceolarioside B (45 μg/mL), 5-O-methylvisammioside (57 μg/mL), and prim-O-glucosylcimifugin (62 μg/mL).

According to the “History of Science and Technology in China: Volume of Weights and Measures,” and by comparing it with the “Key Information Table of Ancient Classic Prescriptions (7 Prescriptions),”[17] [18] 3.73 g of each of Cangzhu, Houpo, Chenpi, Zexie, Fuling, Zhuling, Baizhu, Zhizi, Mutong, Fangfeng, and Huashi were weighed, and 1.12 g of each of Rougui and Gancao were weighed. These materials were soaked in 400 mL of ultrapure water for 30 minutes, then 0.22 g of Dengxincao was added. All the materials were boiled over high fire and then simmered until the liquid amount was 320 mL, to obtain the complete decoction. After the above preparation, the decoction was frozen into freeze-dried powder at −55°C, 500 Pa using a Buchi Lyovapor L-200 (Buchi, Swiss).

All samples were dissolved in methanol and each was prepared into a solution of 10 mg/mL for UPLC-QTOF-MS. The sample solutions and standard solutions were filtered through 0.22 µm microporous filter membrane.


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Preparation of Samples of GC-MS

The method for preparing CWD samples was the same as that of the UPLC-Q-TOF-MS mentioned above. After the preparation and lyophilization, approximately 1 g of freeze-dried powder was weighed for GC-MS of each decoction sample.


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Instrumentation and Conditions

Instrumentation and Conditions of UPLC-Q-TOF-MS

The UPLC-Q-TOF MS analysis was performed using a Waters Acquity UPLC system coupled with a Xevo G2-XS QTOF mass spectrometer (Waters, United States) with an electrospray ionization ion source in MSE mode.

The chromatographic separation process was performed on a Thermo-Accucore aQ C18 (100 mm × 2.1 mm, 2.6 μm; ThermoFisher, United States) at 25°C, with a mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile (A) and 0.1% formic acid aqueous solution (B). The gradient elution was as follows: 0–20 minutes, 5–25% eluent A; 20–30 minutes, 25–45% eluent A; 30–40 minutes, 45–70% eluent A; 40–45 minutes, 70–95% eluent A. The flow rate was 0.3 mL/min.

MS conditions were operated in both positive and negative ion modes and applied as follows: solvent gas temperature (nitrogen), 450°C; capillary voltage, 3.5 KV; an ion source temperature, 120°C; desolvation gas flow, 500 L/h; cone gas flow, 100 L/h; the low collision energy, 6 eV; the high collision energy, 25 to 60 eV.


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Instrumentation and Conditions of GC-MS

The GC-MS analysis was performed using a 7890B GC-5977A MS combined instrument (Agilent, United States) in full spectrum scanning mode.

The chromatographic separation process was performed on an HP-5MS UI (0.25 mm × 30 m × 0.25 μm; Agilent, United States). The temperature gradient was as follows: 0–3 minutes, 40°C; 3–23 minutes, 40–240°C; 23–24 minutes, 240°C; 24–28 minutes, 240–280°C; 28–33 minutes, 280°C. The injection volume was 1 μL of headspace injection. The injection port temperature was 250°C, the flow rate was 1 mL/min, the split ratio was 10:1, the equilibrium temperature of the sample was 85°C, and the balance time was 30 minutes.

MS conditions were as follows: solvent gas temperature (nitrogen) was 450°C, quality scanning range was 40 to 600 Da; an ion source temperature was 230°C; and quadrupole temperature was 150°C. The solvent delay time was 4 minutes.


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Data Processing and Compound Identification

Masslynx 4.1 software (Waters, United States) and UNIFI v1.8 Analysis Platform (Waters, United States) were used to analyze the mass spectra peaks of CWD in positive and negative ion modes. According to the comparison of reference standards or references, the compounds were identified by UV spectrum, retention time, excimer ion peak, molecular formula, fragment ions, and other information combined with the SciFinder database.


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Methods of Research on Network Pharmacology

Active Component Collection of CWD

On the basis of confirming the ingredients of CWD, oral bioavailability (OB) and drug-likeness property (DL) parameters were analyzed using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP; https://old.tcmsp-e.com/index.php). The active ingredients of various medicinal herbs were screened with the set of OB ≥30% and DL ≥0.18 as standards based on the investigation of relevant literature. Gene names corresponding to targets were identified from the protein database Uniprot (https://www.uniprot.org). The potential targets of each active molecule were screened using the target prediction tool SwissTargetPrediction (http://swisstargetprediction.ch/).


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Collection of Therapeutic Targets for Eczema and Herpes Zoster

The keywords “eczema” and “herpes zoster” were used to search through the Drugbank database (https://go.drugbank.com/), the Genecards database (https://www.genecards.org/), and the OMIM database (https://omim.org/).


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Construction of Visual Network

The screened predicted targets were imported into the protein interaction analysis platform STRING 11.0 (https://version-11-0.string-db.org/). A “components-targets” network was established through Cytoscope 3.9.1 between the compound molecules and target proteins of CWD. In the network, the associations between nodes of components and targets were depicted by edges. The “degree” was used to calculate the edges linked to each node, which indicated the significance of the nodes in the network.


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Gene Ontology Analysis and Pathway Enrichment (KEGG and Reactome) Analysis

Overlapping drug targets and diseases were imported into the DAVID (Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery) web server (https://david.ncifcrf.gov/) and OmicShare Cloud Platform (https://www.omicshare.com/) for gene ontology (GO) biological processes and KEGG (Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes) pathway enrichment analysis. The Metascape Platform (http://metascape.org/gp/index.html) was used for Reactome analysis, to explain the results of high-throughput genomics research.


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Molecular Docking

The molecule structure (Mol2 structure) of the active compounds in CWD was downloaded from PubChem (https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/). The 3D structure of the core protein targets was extracted from the Protein Data Bank (https://www1.rcsb.org/). Molecular docking and calculation of the binding affinity were performed using AutoDock (https://ccsb.scripps.edu/projects/).


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Results and Discussion

The Analysis of UPLC-Q-TOF-MS and GC-MS

Components Determined by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS

A total of 194 components were identified from the samples of CWD by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS, including 71 terpenes, 37 flavonoids, 11 steroids, 11 phenylpropanoids, 8 alkaloids, 11 aromatics, 8 organic acids, 13 alcohols and esters, 6 simple ketones and aldehydes, and 18 other compounds. The retention time, excimer ion peak, molecular formula, herb source (in abbreviation), and other information are shown in [Table 2]. The ion flow diagram corresponding to peaks 1 to 194 is shown in [Fig. 1].

Zoom Image
Fig. 1 Total ion flow diagram of CWD components in (A) positive ion mode and (B) negative ion mode of UPLC-Q-TOF-MS. CWD, Chushi Weiling Decoction.
Table 2

Analysis and identification of components from CWD by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS

Compd.

Component name

Neutral mass (Da)

Observed m/z

Mass error (mDa)

Mass error (ppm)

Observed RT (min)

Adducts

Fragment ions (m/z, ESI/ESI+)

Formula

Herb-source (in Abbreviation[a])

Ref.

1

3-Indole carboxylic acid

161.0477

162.0546

−0.3

−2.0

0.64

[M + H]+

162.1524, 131.1723

C9H7NO2

GC

[36]

2

Dehydroeffusal

252.0786

253.0848

−1.1

−4.3

0.66

[M + H]+

253.1445, 203.1294

C16H12O3

DXC

[40]

3

Butenolide B

234.1256

235.1312

−1.6

−6.9

0.66

[M + H]+

235.0317, 234.1720, 219.0972, 157.1694

C14H18O3

CZ

[19]

4

5,7,3′-Trimethoxyl-(−)-epicatechin

332.1260

333.1335

0.2

0.7

0.67

[M + H]+

333.1335, 265.1961, 175.1598

C18H20O6

ZZ

[28] [29]

5

Naringin[b]

580.1792

581.1889

2.5

4.2

0.67

[M + H]+

581.1134, 461.0730, 417.1751

C27H32O14

CP

[35]

6

Quercitrin

448.1006

449.1108

3.0

6.6

0.67

[M + H]+

449.1108, 303.9655, 285.0639, 275.1771, 180.9662, 165.1959, 127.1546, 109.0404

C21H20O11

ZZ

[28] [29]

7

(+)-Syringaresinol

418.1628

419.1694

−0.7

−1.6

0.68

[M + H]+

419.2348

C22H26O8

RG, HP

[31] [32]

8

Genipin-1-O-gentiobioside

550.1898

549.1810

−1.5

−2.8

0.69

[M − H]

549.1810, 387.1237, 371.0946, 225.0650, 123.0331

C23H34O15

ZZ

[28] [29]

9

Picrasmalignan A

534.1890

533.1850

3.3

6.3

0.70

[M - H]

533.1850, 403.1144

C30H30O9

RG

[31]

10

Liriodenine

275.0582

276.0640

−1.6

−5.6

0.72

[M + H]+

276.0640

C17H9NO3

HP

[32]

11

N-Methylisosalsoline

207.1259

208.1327

−0.5

−2.3

0.73

[M + H]+

208.1327

C12H17NO2

HP

[32]

12

2-Hydroxyisoxypropyl-3-hydroxy-7-isopentene-2,3-dihydrobenzofuran-5-carboxylic

306.1467

307.1526

−1.4

−4.5

0.76

[M + H]+

307.1526, 291.1987, 263.2010

C17H22O5

CZ

[19]

13

Aristolochic acid A

340.0583

341.0635

−2.1

−6.1

0.77

[M + H]+

341.0635, 313.1517

C17H11NO7

MT

[21] [22]

14

Cassiferaldehyde

178.0630

179.0694

−0.9

−5.1

0.77

[M + H]+

179.0694, 163.9995, 145.1784

C10H10O3

RG

[31]

15

Gardenoside_qt[b]

242.1154

243.1217

−1.0

−4.1

0.77

[M + H]+

243.0620

C12H18O5

ZZ

[28] [29]

16

Genipin

226.0841

227.0916

0.2

1.1

0.78

[M + H]+

227.0916

C11H14O5

ZZ

[28] [29]

17

Erthro-guaiacy lglycerol

214.0841

215.0927

1.3

5.9

0.82

[M + H]+

215.0927, 151.1683

C10H14O5

RG

[31]

18

5′-Methoxylariciresinol

390.1679

391.1759

0.7

1.9

0.84

[M + H]+

391.1759, 353.1975, 289.0502

C21H26O7

RG

[31]

19

Sinapaldehyde 4-O-β-D-glucopyranoside

370.1264

371.1339

0.2

0.6

0.91

[M + H]+

371.1339, 197.0718

C17H22O9

HP

[32]

20

Magnoloside R

478.1686

479.1780

2.1

4.4

0.92

[M + H]+

479.1780, 457.2520, 441.1270

C20H30O13

HP

[32]

21

3-(3,4-Dimethoxyphenyl)-2-propenal

192.0786

193.0847

−1.2

−6.3

0.96

[M + H]+

193.0847, 175.1160, 149.1337

C11H12O3

RG

[31]

22

Sulfoorientalol C

300.1395

301.1455

−1.3

−4.5

1.07

[M + H]+

301.1455, 243.0157

C15H24O4S

ZX

[27]

23

Licorice glycoside A

726.2160

727.2266

3.4

4.6

1.50

[M + H]+

727.2266, 711.1833, 527.1888

C36H38O16

GC

[36]

24

11-Hydroxy-sec-O-β-D-glucosylhamaudol

472.1581

473.1638

−1.5

−3.2

1.59

[M + H]+

473.1638, 429.1854, 297.3093

C21H28O12

FF

[37]

25

Gancaonin Q

406.1780

407.1821

−3.2

−7.9

1.72

[M + H]+

407.1821, 385.2041, 305.3676

C25H26O5

GC

[36]

26

Prim-O-glucosylcimifugin[b]

468.1737

469.1790

−2.0

−4.2

1.75

[M + H]+

469.1790, 443.1633, 415.1733, 385.2041

C22H28O11

FF

[37]

27

8β-Methoxyatractylenolide I

262.1569

263.1629

−1.3

−4.8

1.92

[M + H]+

263.1629, 199.1105

C16H22O3

CZ, BZ

[19] [20]

28

Cinncassiol A

381.1913

382.2007

2.1

5.4

2.21

[M + H]+

381.1721, 339.1682, 325.1788

C20H30O7

RG

[31]

29

Anomalin

426.1679

427.1717

−3.4

−8.1

2.35

[M + H]+

427.1710, 263.1408, 245.0156, 217.0547

C24H26O7

FF

[38]

30

Epianhydrocinnzeylanol

366.2042

367.2080

−3.5

−9.5

2.43

[M + H]+

367.2080, 349.2000, 305.2243

C20H30O6

RG

[31]

31

(2S)-2-[4-Hydroxy-3-(3-methylbut-2-enyl)phenyl]-8,8-dimethyl-2,3-dihydropyrano[2,3-f]chromen-4-one

390.1831

391.1897

−0.6

−1.6

2.49

[M + H]+

391.1897, 369.2114

C25H26O4

GC

[36]

32

Isochlorogenic acid A[b]

516.1268

515.1217

2.2

4.3

2.49

[M − H]

515.1217, 497.1316

C25H24O12

ZZ

[28] [29]

33

Deacetylasperulosidic acid methyl ester

404.1319

403.1231

−1.5

−3.6

2.50

[M − H]

403.1231

C17H24O11

ZZ

[28] [29]

34

Tembetarine

344.1862

345.1925

−1.0

−2.8

2.81

[M + H]+

642.1540, 619.1677, 589.1520

C20H26NO4 +

HP

[32]

35

Fangfengalpyrimidine

296.1372

297.1444

−0.1

−0.4

2.95

[M + H]+

297.1444, 281.1784, 211.1701

C14H20O5N2

FF

[37]

36

Glycyrin

382.1416

383.1472

−1.7

−4.6

3.06

[M + H]+

383.1472, 309.1640, 265.1397

C22H22O6

GC

[36]

37

Magnoligan H

562.2355

561.2280

−0.3

−0.5

3.11

[M − H]

561.2280, 519.9194, 475.0555

C36H34O6

HP

[32]

38

Paeonolide

460.1581

461.1668

1.5

3.1

3.17

[M + H]+

460.9483, 297.1050, 167.1323, 137.1349

C20H28O12

CZ

[19]

39

(4E,6E,12E)-4,6,12-Tetradecatriene-8,10-diyne-1,3,14-triol

232.1099

233.1169

−0.4

−1.5

3.26

[M + H]+

233.0911, 215.0813, 193.1007, 91.1242

C14H16O3

BZ

[20]

40

Nobiletin

402.1315

403.1381

−0.6

−1.5

3.45

[M + H]+

413.1381, 317.1877, 301.2659

C21H22O8

CP

[35]

41

Neocnidilide

194.1307

195.1392

1.3

6.6

3.50

[M + H]+

195.1392, 177.1313

C12H18O2

FF

[38]

42

1-Methoxyficifolinol

422.2093

423.2130

−3.6

−8.5

3.93

[M + H]+

423.2130, 365.1625

C26H30O5

GC

[36]

43

1,1'-Dibenzene-6',8',9'-trihydroxy-3-allyl-4-O-β-D-glucopyranoside

462.1890

463.2001

3.9

8.4

3.96

[M + H]+

463.2001, 293.1686, 241.1755

C24H30O9

HP

[32]

44

[(3R)-3,7-Dimethyloct-6-enyl] butanoate

226.1933

227.2000

−0.6

−2.7

4.31

[M + H]+

227.0265, 143.0355

C14H26O2

CP

[35]

45

Atractyloyne

314.1882

315.1982

2.7

8.6

4.38

[M + H]+

315.1982, 261.1326

C19H24O4

CZ

[19]

46

β-Hydroxyacteoside

640.2003

639.1923

−0.7

−1.2

4.51

[M − H]

639.1923, 595.2032

C29H36O16

HP

[32]

47

Paeonioflorin

482.1788

483.1859

−0.2

−0.3

4.52

[M + H]+

483.1859, 397.2006, 343.2326

C23H30O11

CZ

[19]

48

Orientanone

348.1065

349.1138

0.0

0.1

4.60

[M + H]+

349.1138, 297.4816

C15H24O5S2

ZX

[27]

49

10-epi-Atractyloside A

448.2309

449.2390

0.9

2.0

4.68

[M + H]+

449.2390, 403.2103, 297.3092

C21H36O10

CZ

[19]

50

Kanzonol Y

410.2093

411.2162

−0.4

−0.9

4.70

[M + H]+

411.2162, 395.1499, 297.3092

C25H30O5

GC

[36]

51

Atractylenolide III

248.1412

249.1469

−1.7

−6.7

4.81

[M + H]+

249.1469, 223.1396

C15H20O3

CZ, BZ

[19] [20]

52

Gardenone

226.1569

227.1648

0.6

2.7

5.51

[M + H]+

227.1648, 209.1573, 191.1473, 177.1319

C12H20O3

ZZ

[28] [29]

53

(+)-Dehydrovomifoliol

222.1256

223.1333

0.4

1.9

5.51

[M + H]+

223.1333, 209.1573, 191.1473, 177.1319, 149.1367

C13H18O3

HP

[32]

54

Vitexin

432.1057

433.1114

−1.5

−3.5

5.51

[M + H]+

433.1114, 281.0650

C21H20O10

GC

[36]

55

Calceolarioside B[b]

478.1475

479.1549

0.2

0.3

5.51

[M + H]+

479.1550, 411.1791

C23H26O11

MT

[21] [22]

56

(E)-3-(3-Methoxyphenyl)acrylaldehyde

162.0681

163.0749

−0.4

−2.5

5.67

[M + H]+

163.0750, 143.0357, 127.0617

C10H10O2

RG

[31]

57

(± )-9-Hydroxy-10E,12Z-octadecadienoic acid

296.2351

297.2406

−1.8

−6.2

5.84

[M + H]+

297.2406, 269.1846, 211.1473, 146.1472

C18H32O3

HP

[32]

58

Oxypaeoniflorin

496.1581

497.1629

−2.4

−4.9

6.18

[M + H]+

497.1629, 425.1340

C23H28O12

CZ

[19]

59

Methyl 3,4,5-trimethoxycinnamate

252.0998

251.0949

2.4

9.4

6.88

[M − H]

251.0949, 229.1132, 183.1062

C13H16O5

CZ

[19]

60

Gancaonin T

398.2093

399.2145

−2.1

−5.3

7.03

[M + H]+

399.2145, 297.3094

C24H30O5

GC

[36]

61

Pachyman

500.2105

501.2156

−2.2

−4.3

7.24

[M + H]+

501.2156, 485.2381, 439.2048

C20H30O14

FL

[24]

62

Coniferin

342.1315

343.1411

2.3

6.8

7.2

[M + H]+

343.1411, 185.1562

C16H22O8

HP

[32]

63

Albiflorin

480.1632

481.1725

2.1

4.3

7.49

[M + H]+

481.1725, 467.1944, 413.1339

C23H28O11

CZ

[19]

64

Euchrenone

406.2144

407.2199

−1.8

−4.4

8.1

[M + H]+

407.2199, 355.2335, 301.1431, 203.2675

C25H26O5

GC

[36]

65

Xambioona

388.1675

389.1761

1.4

3.5

8.85

[M + H]+

389.1761, 341.2324, 211.1702

C25H24O4

GC

[36]

66

Houpulin H

436.2614

437.2673

−1.3

−3.0

9.22

[M + H]+

427.2306, 355.2334

C28H36O4

HP

[32]

67

Magnoflorine

342.1705

342.1773

−2.1

−6.3

9.68

[M]+

342.1773, 311.2000, 297.2154, 237.2061

C20H24NO4 +

HP

[32]

68

(S)-Falcarinol

244.1827

245.1906

0.6

2.4

9.69

[M + H]+

245.1906, 221.1561, 203.1452

C17H24O

FF

[38]

69

Gancaonin R

382.2144

383.2219

0.2

0.5

9.75

[M + H]+

383.2219, 307.2192, 185.1916

C24H30O4

GC

[36]

70

Houpulin C

398.1882

399.1950

−0.5

−1.2

9.97

[M + H]+

399.1950, 373.1039, 331.1639

C27H26O3

HP

[32]

71

(4aS,6aR,6aS,6bR,8aR,12aS,14bS)-2,2,6a,6b,9,9,12a-Heptamethyl-1,3,4,5,6,6a,7,8,8a,10,11,12,13,14b-tetradecahydropicene-4a-carboxylic acid

440.3654

441.3723

−0.4

−1.0

10.02

[M + H]+

441.1637, 419.1830

C30H48O2

MT

[21] [22]

72

Kanzonols X

394.2144

395.2200

−1.6

−4.2

10.34

[M + H]+

395.2200, 331.2170, 277.2113

C25H30O4

GC

[36]

73

Galloylpaeoniflorin

632.1741

633.1791

−2.3

−3.6

10.71

[M + H]+

633.1526, 611.1441, 529.2185, 477.1998

C30H32O15

CZ

[19]

74

Glyasperin A

422.1729

423.1781

−2.1

−4.9

10.72

[M + H]+

423.1781, 381.2039

C25H26O6

GC

[36]

75

Gancaonin H

420.1573

421.1615

−3.1

−7.4

10.88

[M + H]+

421.1615, 311.2493, 207.1408

C25H24O6

GC

[36]

76

(−)-Epicatechin-3-O-β-glucoside

464.1683

465.1780

2.5

5.4

11.35

[M + H]+

465.1780, 439.2774, 297.3092, 283.2953

C22H24O11

RG

[31]

77

Houpulin K

546.2406

547.2520

4.1

7.5

11.71

[M + H]+

403.2643, 385.2346, 339.2209

C36H34O5

HP

[32]

78

Blumenol A

224.1412

225.1495

1.0

4.4

11.94

[M + H]+

225.1495, 207.1414, 175.1156

C13H20O3

HP

[32]

79

3,5-Dimethoxy-4-glucosyloxyphenylallylalcohol_qt

210.0892

209.0835

1.5

7.3

12.05

[M − H]

209.0835, 187.1010

C11H14O4

CZ

[19]

80

(+)-Leptolepisol C

498.1890

497.1770

−4.7

−9.4

12.57

[M − H]

497.1770, 469.9197, 401.9299, 249.9649

C27H30O9

RG

[31]

81

Atractylenolide I

230.1307

231.1388

0.8

3.5

12.57

[M + H]+

231.1388, 215.1578, 189.1274, 177.1311, 145.1406

C15H18O2

CZ, BZ

[19] [20]

82

Isoschaftoside

564.1479

565.1540

−1.2

−2.2

12.82

[M + H]+

565.1540, 527.2766, 429.2011

C26H28O14

GC

[36]

83

(−)-Medicocarpin

432.1420

433.1498

0.5

1.1

13.09

[M + H]+

433.1498, 347.1408, 291.2258, 271.1308, 183.1919

C22H24O9

GC

[36]

84

Lactiflorin

462.1526

461.1465

1.2

2.6

13.64

[M − H]

461.1638, 447.1721, 381.1842

C23H26O10

CZ

[19]

85

Poricoic acid A

498.3345

499.3412

−0.6

−1.2

15.05

[M + H]+

499.3412

C31H46O5

FL

[24]

86

Leonoside A

770.2633

771.2675

−3.1

−4.0

15.10

[M + H]+

771.2675, 745.2080

C35H46O19

HP

[32]

87

Cinnacasiol H

382.1992

383.2042

−2.3

−5.9

15.24

[M + H]+

383.2042, 335.1576, 275.2368

C20H30O7

RG

[31]

88

Decyl acetate

200.1776

201.1849

0.0

0.2

15.50

[M + H]+

201.1850, 187.1868

C12H24O2

FF

[37]

89

Magnoloside Y

626.2211

627.2296

1.2

2.0

16.77

[M + H]+

627.2296, 583.2188

C30H26O15

HP

[32]

90

2-Tetradecanone

212.2140

213.2227

1.4

6.7

17.41

[M + H]+

213.2227

C14H28O

GC

[36]

91

Poricoic acid C

482.3396

483.3489

2.0

4.2

17.59

[M + H]+

483.3489, 431.9511

C31H46O4

FL

[24]

92

8β-Ethoxy atractylenolide III

276.1725

277.1776

−2.2

−8.1

17.75

[M + H]+

277.1776, 259.1688, 205.1256

C18H28O2

CZ, BZ

[19] [20]

93

Dehydroabietic acid

300.2089

301.2173

1.0

3.5

18.33

[M + H]+

301.2173, 269.1532

C20H28O2

FL

[24]

94

Geniposide[b]

388.1370

389.1425

−1.8

−4.5

21.77

[M + H]+

389.1425, 365.1651

C17H24O10

ZZ

[28] [29]

95

Paeonin

660.1457

661.1529

−0.1

−0.2

21.78

[M + H]+

661.1529, 645.1854, 603.1822

C28H33ClO16

CZ

[19]

96

Magnoloside P

774.2582

775.2691

3.6

4.6

22.09

[M + H]+

775.7674, 757.3918

C34H46O20

HP

[32]

97

(−)-15-Hydroxy-T-muurolol

218.1671

219.1734

−1.0

−4.5

22.53

[M + H]+

219.1663, 207.1403, 147.1930, 123.1908

C15H22O

RG

[31]

98

Crocin I[b]

976.3788

977.3900

4.

4.1

22.57

[M + H]+

977.3900, 831.3745, 655.3856

C44H64O24

ZZ

[28] [29]

99

Dehydrotumulosic acid

484.3553

485.3640

1.4

3.0

23.01

[M + H]+

485.3640, 467.3574, 447.9464, 271.1655

C31H48O4

FL

[24]

100

Croceic acid

328.1675

327.1611

0.9

2.8

23.32

[M − H]

327.1611, 309.1694

C20H24O4

ZZ

[28] [29]

101

(−)-Myrtenal

150.1045

151.1117

0.0

0.0

23.49

[M + H]+

151.1117, 121.1606

C10H14O

HP

[32]

102

Poricoic acid CE

510.3709

511.3764

−1.8

−3.6

23.55

[M + H]+

511.3764, 451.3655, 397.0895, 375.1113

C33H50O4

FL

[24]

103

Icariside F2

402.1526

403.1564

−3.5

−8.7

24.00

[M + H]+

403.1564, 315.1757

C18H26O10

CZ, BZ

[19] [20]

104

3-(2-Hydroxyacetoxy)-5α,8α-peroxydehydro-tumulosic acid

572.3349

573.3462

4.0

6.9

24.12

[M + H]+

573.3462, 555.1128, 469.1532

C33H48O8

FL

[24]

105

24-Methylene-3-oxolanost-8-en-21-oic acid

468.3604

469.3699

2.2

4.8

24.13

[M + H]+

469.1532, 429.1674

C31H48O3

FL

[24]

106

(−)-Epoxycaryophyllene

220.1827

221.1895

−0.5

−2.1

24.21

[M + H]+

221.1895, 191.0765

C15H24O

HP

[32]

107

Cinnamoid E

234.1620

235.1692

−0.1

−0.4

24.29

[M + H]+

235.1692, 185.1523

C15H22O2

RG

[31]

108

β-Eudesmol

224.2140

225.2226

1.3

6.0

24.40

[M + H]+

225.2226, 199.0994

C15H28O

CZ, BZ, HP, FF

[19] [20] [32] [38]

109

23-O-Methylalisol A

504.3815

505.3870

−1.8

−3.5

24.42

[M + H]+

505.3870, 487.3789, 469.3716

C31H52O5

ZX

[27]

110

5-O-Methylvisamminol[b]

290.1154

289.1097

1.6

5.4

24.55

[M − H]

289.1097, 243.1042, 221.1214

C16H18O5

FF

[37]

111

Geranylacetone

194.1671

195.1763

1.9

9.8

24.60

[M + H]+

195.1734, 179.2052

C13H22O

FF

[38]

112

Tumulosic acid

486.3709

487.3803

2.1

4.4

24.66

[M + H]+

487.3803, 469.3732

C31H50O4

FL

[24]

113

Shanzhiside

392.1319

393.1405

1.4

3.5

24.79

[M + H]+

393.1405, 225.0653

C16H24O11

ZZ

[28] [29]

114

Eudesma-4(14)-en-1,6-diol

240.2089

241.2153

−0.9

−3.8

26.27

[M + H]+

241.2153, 197.2770

C15H28O2

BZ

[20]

115

Kanzonol H

424.2250

425.2340

1.8

4.1

26.41

[M + H]+

425.2282, 371.2043

C26H32O5

GC

[36]

116

Syringin

372.1420

373.1502

0.9

2.4

27.12

[M + H]+

373.1502, 357.1291

C17H24O9

CZ

[19]

117

Undecyl acetate

214.1933

215.2013

0.8

3.7

27.26

[M + H]+

215.2014, 159.1566

C13H26O2

FL

[24]

118

2,5,5-Trimethylhepta-1,6-diene

138.1409

139.1489

0.7

5.2

27.45

[M + H]+

139.1489, 103.1270

C10H18

CP

[35]

119

4-Keto-Magnoflorine

356.1498

357.1576

0.5

1.4

27.71

[M + H]+

357.1576, 343.3559

C20H22NO5 +

HP

[32]

120

16-Deoxyporicoic acid B

468.3240

469.3291

−2.1

−4.5

27.87

[M + H]+

469.3291, 365.1646, 259.2386

C30H44O4

FL

[24]

121

(22E)-Ergosta-7,22 -dien-3β,5α,6β-ol

430.3447

431.3530

1.0

2.4

28.00

[M + H]+

431.3530, 413.1703, 387.2134, 343.1938

C28H46O3

FL, ZL

[24] [26]

122

Cedrol

222.1984

223.2059

0.2

1.0

28.12

[M + H]+

223.2059, 197.1910

C15H28O

CZ

[19]

123

Cinnamoid D

236.1776

237.1842

−0.7

−2.9

28.16

[M + H]+

237.2576, 219.1752, 165.0047

C15H24O2

RG

[31]

124

Glyasperin D

370.1780

371.1829

−2.4

−6.5

28.17

[M + H]+

371.1829

C22H26O5

GC

[36]

125

Asperuloside_qt

252.0634

253.0694

−1.2

−4.9

28.25

[M + H]+

253.0694, 225.9753

C12H12O6

ZZ

[28] [29]

126

Magnocurarine

314.1756

315.1817

−1.2

−3.7

28.97

[M + H]+

315.1817

C19H24NO3 +

HP

[32]

127

(2R)-2-[3,4-Dihydroxy-5-(3-methylbut-2-enyl)phenyl]-5,7-dihydroxy-8-(3-methylbut-2-enyl)chroman-4-one

424.1886

425.1949

−0.9

−2.2

29.57

[M + H]+

425.1949, 409.2286, 355.2137, 299.2554

C25H28O6

GC

[36]

128

15-Hydroxy-7-oxoabieta-8,11,13-trien-18-oic acid

330.1831

331.1916

1.2

3.7

29.57

[M + H]+

331.1916, 299.2554

C20H26O4

FL

[24]

129

10-O-Methyl-alismoxide

252.2089

253.214

−1.5

−5.8

29.85

[M + H]+

253.2147, 179.2194

C16H28O2

ZX

[27]

130

Houpulin F

420.2665

421.2731

−0.7

−1.6

30.44

[M + H]+

421.2731, 341.3293, 271.3299

C28H36O3

HP

[32]

131

Dauricine

624.3199

625.3290

1.8

2.9

30.85

[M + H]+

625.3290, 205.2191, 189.1632, 161.1524

C38H44N2O6

MT

[21] [22]

132

16-Oxo-alisol A

504.3451

505.3518

−0.6

−1.1

30.88

[M + H]+

505.3518, 483.1921, 467.2456

C30H48O6

ZX

[27]

133

Caryolane-1,9β-diol

238.1933

239.2011

0.5

2.2

31.07

[M + H]+

239.2011, 193.1995

C15H26O2

RG

[31]

134

Houpulin J

402.2559

403.2641

1.0

2.4

31.51

[M + H]+

403.2641, 385.2346, 371.2216, 355.3386, 337.3595

C28H34O2

HP

[32]

135

Cinncassiol D1

352.2250

353.2333

1.0

2.9

32.02

[M + H]+

353.2333, 335.3303

C20H32O5

RG

[31]

136

Akebonic acid

440.3291

441.3379

1.5

3.5

33.10

[M + H]+

441.3379, 409.2314

C29H44O3

MT

[21] [22]

137

Poricoic acid D

514.3294

513.3193

−2.9

−5.6

33.33

[M − H]

513.3193

C32H48O7

FL

[24]

138

Ergosta-7-en-3,5,6-triol

432.3604

433.3671

−0.5

−1.2

33.51

[M + H]+

433.3671, 417.3971, 313.2673

C28H48O3

ZL

[26]

139

Uralsaponin B

822.4038

823.4070

−4.0

−4.9

33.67

[M + H]+

803.4070, 779.3923, 765.5055

C42H62O16

GC

[36]

140

Kanzonols L

490.2355

491.2425

−0.3

−0.7

33.75

[M + H]+

491.2425, 475.2702, 327.1432

C30H34O6

GC

[36]

141

Cinncassiol D4-2-O-monoacetate

366.2406

367.2471

−0.8

−2.3

33.88

[M + H]+

367.2471, 319.3628

C21H34O5

RG

[31]

142

Hydroxytetracosanoic acid

384.3604

385.3677

0.1

0.2

34.33

[M + H]+

385.3677, 299.2268

C24H48O3

ZL

[26]

143

Cinncassiol D3

368.2199

369.2283

1.1

2.9

34.37

[M + H]+

369.2283, 319.1751

C20H32O6

RG

[31]

144

(22E)-Ergosta-6,8(14),22-trien-3β-ol

396.3392

397.3451

−1.4

−3.6

34.61

[M + H]+

397.3451, 381.3475, 365.3563, 279.1637

C28H44O

FL

[24]

145

2-Lauroleic acid

198.1620

199.1701

0.8

4.2

35.10

[M + H]+

199.1701, 185.1708, 161.1730

C12H22O2

FL

[24]

146

Poricoic acid DM

528.3451

529.3472

−5.2

−9.8

35.42

[M + H]+

529.3472

C32H48O6

FL

[24]

147

Poricoic acid B

484.3189

485.3290

2.8

5.9

35.56

[M + H]+

485.3290, 467.3383, 411.1554, 325.2855

C30H44O5

FL

[24]

148

(22E)-Er-gosta-5,7,9(11),22 -tetraen-3β-ol

394.3236

395.3306

−0.3

−0.7

35.61

[M + H]+

395.3306, 327.3144, 305.2249

C28H42O

FL

[24]

149

Oleanolic acid-28-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside

618.4132

619.4167

−3.8

−6.1

35.75

[M + H]+

619.4167, 535.3676, 475.3616

C36H58O8

HP

[32]

150

Alisol A 23,24-diacetate

574.3870

575.3991

4.9

8.5

35.85

[M + H]+

575.3984, 553.3695, 493.3624

C34H54O7

ZX

[27]

151

Crepenynic acid

278.2246

279.2295

−2.3

−8.3

35.92

[M + H]+

279.2296, 237.2577

C18H30O2

BZ

[20]

152

Citromitin

404.1471

403.1393

−0.5

−1.3

36.64

[M − H]

403.1393

C20H20O7

CP

[35]

153

Polyporusterone F

462.3345

463.3445

2.7

5.8

36.68

[M + H]+

463.3445, 413.3189, 319.2897

C28H46O5

ZL

[26]

154

11,25-Anhydroalisol F

452.3291

453.3365

0.2

0.5

36.90

[M + H]+

453.3365, 429.3682, 413.2441, 302.3736

C30H44O3

ZX

[27]

155

Daedaleanic acid B

488.3502

489.3558

−1.6

−3.4

37.76

[M + H]+

489.3558, 473.3861, 341.3287

C30H48O5

FL

[24]

156

24-Hydroxy-11-deoxyglycyrrhetic acid

458.3396

459.3494

2.5

5.5

37.81

[M + H]+

459.3494, 421.3847

C29H46O4

GC

[36]

157

Alisol J 23-acetate

526.3294

527.3362

−0.5

−1.0

38.10

[M + H]+

527.3362, 487.3979, 475.3038

C32H46O6

ZX

[27]

158

Stigmasterol 3-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside

574.4233

575.4328

2.2

3.8

38.56

[M + H]+

575.4328, 545.4279, 537.3829, 343.2842

C35H58O6

CZ

[19]

159

16,23-Oxido-alisol B

470.3396

471.3465

−0.4

−0.8

39.07

[M + H]+

471.3456, 399.3606

C30H46O4

ZX

[27]

160

26-Hydroxyporicoic acid DM

544.3400

545.3496

2.3

4.3

39.08

[M + H]+

545.3496, 499.3533, 461.3603

C32H48O7

FL

[24]

161

Alisol B diacetate

556.3764

557.3873

3.6

6.5

39.51

[M + H]+

557.3918, 531.4154

C34H52O6

ZX

[27]

162

Stigmast-4-ene-3,6-dione

426.3498

427.3558

−1.3

−2.9

39.56

[M + H]+

429.3558, 349.3443, 299.3168

C29H46O2

ZZ

[28] [29]

163

(22E)-Ergosta-7,22 -dien-3β-ol

398.3549

399.3621

0.0

0.0

40.24

[M + H]+

399.3621, 345.3486, 301.3576

C28H46O

FL, ZL

[24] [25]

164

Glyasperin E

444.1573

445.1657

1.1

2.5

40.40

[M + H]+

445.1657, 429.3067, 301.2096

C27H24O6

GC

[36]

165

Polyporoid C

494.3244

495.3276

−4.0

−8.1

40.99

[M + H]+

495.3276, 439.3856

C28H46O7

ZL

[26]

166

3β-Hydroxystigmasta-5,22-dien-7-one

424.3341

425.3378

−3.6

−8.5

41.79

[M + H]+

425.3378, 399.4010, 257.2334

C29H44O2

HP

[32]

167

Stigmasterol

412.3705

413.3751

−2.7

−6.6

42.15

[M + H]+

413.3751, 399.3317, 313.2665

C29H48O

MT, ZZ

[21] [22] [28] [29]

168

Hesperidin[b]

610.1898

611.1940

−3.1

−5.0

42.17

[M + H]+

611.1940, 441.3571, 297.3090

C28H34O15

CP

[35]

169

Heptadecane

240.2817

241.2897

0.7

3.0

42.38

[M + H]+

241.2897

C17H36

BZ

[20]

170

Polyporusterone A

478.3294

479.3336

−3.1

−6.5

42.87

[M + H]+

479.3336, 441.3643

C28H46O6

ZL

[25] [26]

171

4,22-Stigmastadiene-3-one

410.3549

411.3608

−1.4

−3.3

43.49

[M + H]+

411.3608, 387.3042, 297.3090

C29H46O

HP

[32]

172

3α-Pachymic acid

528.3815

529.3891

0.3

0.6

43.51

[M + H]+

529.3891, 485.3752, 441.3631

C33H52O5

FL

[24]

173

Poricoic acid ZG

502.3294

503.3363

−0.4

−0.8

43.81

[M + H]+

503.3363, 419.3841

C30H46O6

FL

[24]

174

11-Deoxy 13,17-epoxy-alisol A

490.3658

491.3706

−2.5

−5.0

43.82

[M + H]+

491.3707, 463.3458, 439.2510, 333.1403

C30H50O5

ZX

[27]

175

Eburicoic acid

470.3760

471.3858

2.5

5.4

44.19

[M + H]+

471.3858, 447.4211, 433.2019

C31H50O3

FL

[24]

176

Cinnacaslol glucoside

544.2520

545.2608

1.6

2.9

44.42

[M + H]+

545.2608, 523.5031, 441.3846

C26H40O12

RG

[31]

177

13,17-Epoxy-alisol A

506.3607

507.3688

0.8

1.5

44.65

[M + H]+

507.3688, 493.3894, 365.4323, 283.2955

C30H50O6

ZX

[27]

178

Kaempferol[b]

286.0477

287.0556

0.6

2.2

44.82

[M + H]+

287.0557, 269.9386

C15H10O6

ZZ

[28] [29]

179

25-O-Ethylalisol A

518.3971

519.4084

4.0

7.7

44.85

[M + H]+

519.4084, 467.4148

C32H54O5

ZX

[27]

180

Oplopanane

192.1878

193.1960

0.9

4.5

45.02

[M + H]+

193.2343, 177.2408

C14H24

HP

[32]

181

beta-Sitosterol-3-O-β-D-xylopyranoside

546.4284

547.4303

−5.4

−9.9

45.05

[M + H]+

547.4303, 519.3270, 505.3836

C34H58O5

MT

[21] [22]

182

(4E,6E,12E)-Tetradecatriene-8,10-diyne-1,3-diyl diacetate

300.1362

301.1437

0.2

0.8

45.82

[M + H]+

301.1437, 261.2044, 217.1814, 173.1560

C18H20O4

BZ

[20]

183

8-Methylheptadecane

254.2974

255.3038

−0.

−3.4

45.98

[M + H]+

255.3051, 241.1753

C18H38

RG

[31]

184

2,4-Di-t-butylphenol

206.1671

207.1749

0.6

2.8

45.99

[M + H]+

207.1749, 189.0352, 147.0085

C14H22O

CP

[35]

185

5-Allyl-5′-(1″-hydroxyallyloxy)biphenyl-2,2'-diol

298.1205

299.1284

0.6

1.9

46.00

[M + H]+

297.3135, 283.2956, 255.2339

C18H18O4

HP

[32]

186

Squalene

410.3913

411.4005

2.0

4.9

46.00

[M + H]+

411.3562

C30H50

ZZ

[28] [29]

187

Myristic acid

228.2089

229.2164

0.2

1.0

46.00

[M + H]+

229.2164, 215.2060, 201.1866

C14H28O2

ZZ

[28] [29]

188

Palmitoleic acid

254.2246

255.2304

−1.5

−5.8

46.00

[M + H]+

255.2304

C16H30O2

ZZ

[28] [29]

189

Acetyl Eburicoic Acid

512.3866

513.3924

−1.4

−2.7

46.01

[M + H]+

513.4417, 495.4774, 359.3011

C33H52O4

FL

[24]

190

Heneicosane

296.3443

297.3526

1.0

3.5

46.01

[M + H]+

297.3095, 283.2956

C21H44

ZZ

[28] [29]

191

Licorisoflavan A

438.2406

439.2451

−2.8

−6.3

46.02

[M + H]+

439.2524, 383.1993, 311.3788

C27H34O5

GC

[36]

192

Procyanidin B2

578.1424

579.1471

−2.6

−4.5

46.07

[M + H]+

579.1022, 551.3563, 495.3051

C30H26O12

RG

[31]

193

(2E)-1-Butoxy-2-hexene

156.1514

157.1593

0.6

3.8

46.07

[M + H]+

157.1593

C10H20O

GC

[36]

194

Gancaonin C

354.1103

355.1191

1.5

4.2

46.19

[M + H]+

355.1191

C20H18O6

GC

[36]

Abbreviation: CWD, Chushi Weiling Decoction.


a Abbreviations: CZ, Cangzhu; HP, Houpo; CP, Chenpi; GC, Gancao; ZX, Zexie; FL, Fuling; ZL, Zhuling; RG, Rougui; BZ, Baizhu; ZZ, Zhizi; MT, Mutong; FF, Fangfeng; DXC, Dengxincao.


b Compared with reference substance.



#

Components Determined by GC-MS

A total of 92 components were identified from the samples of CWD by GC-MS, including 22 terpenes, 1 phenylpropanoid, 6 aromatics, 8 organic acids, 21 alcohols and esters, 20 simple ketones and aldehydes, and 14 other compounds. The results indicated that these compounds mainly come from Cangzhu, Mutong, Chenpi, etc. The retention time, ion peak, molecular formula, herb source (in abbreviation), and other information are shown in [Table 3]. The ion flow diagram corresponding to peaks 195 to 286 is shown in [Fig. 2].

Zoom Image
Fig. 2 Total ion flow diagram of CWD components in GC-MS. CWD, Chushi Weiling Decoction.
Table 3

Analysis and identification of components from CWD by GC-MS

Compd.

Component Name

Observed RT (min)

Observed m/z

Fragment Ions(m/z)

Formula

Herb-source (in Abbreviation* )

195

2-Hydroxyethyl acrylate

5.0

116.047

88.030, 72.990, 55.020

C5H8O3

FF

196

2,3-Butanediol

5.2

90.068

75.020, 57.040

C4H10O2

CZ, HP, ZX

197

3-Furaldehyde

5.7

96.021

96.000, 66.990

C5H4O2

FF, FL, CP, CZ

198

3-Methylvaleric Acid

6.2

116.084

87.000, 60.020

C6H12O2

BZ

199

2-Methylidenecyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid

6.3

98.037

98.010, 86.970, 74.020

C5H6O2

HP

200

Pentanoic acid

7.0

102.068

86.960, 73.000, 60.010

C5H10O2

RG

201

3,3-Dimethylacrylic acid

7.1

100.052

100.030, 82.010, 60.020

C5H8O2

MT

202

2-Valerylfuran

7.3

152.084

133.010, 109.990, 94.980, 59.980

C9H12O2

HP

203

Tetrahydropyran

7.5

86.073

108.050, 86.000, 72.990, 56.020

C5H10O

HP, RG

204

Carene

7.7

136.234

136.080, 122.020

C10H16

MT

205

4-Methylanisole

7.8

122.073

122.030, 107.010, 79.000, 55.020

C8H10O

HP

206

Benzaldehyde

8.3

106.042

106.010, 94.990, 77.010

C7H6O

FF, RG, MT

207

5-Methyl-2-furaldehyde

8.3

110.037

109.990, 81.010

C6H6O2

GC, CP, ZL

208

5-Ethyl-2-methyl-2,3-dihydro-furan

8.4

112.089

111.930, 72.000, 54.980

C7H12O

CP

209

Methylal

8.5

76.094

76.020, 30.120

C3H8O2

BZ

210

2,4-Dihydroxy-2,5-dimethyl-3(2H)-furan-3-one

8.7

144.042

144.000, 100.990, 87.010, 73.000, 55.020

C6H8O4

FF

211

2-Amylfuran

8.8

138.207

138.040, 108.980, 82.040, 68.100

C9H14O

ZL

212

Hexanoic acid

9.0

116.084

87.020, 73.020, 60.020

C6H12O2

FF, ZX, ZL

213

α-Phellandrene

9.1

136.234

136.050, 122.010, 107.980

C10H16

MT

214

α-Terpinene

9.3

136.234

136.000, 121.000, 93.200

C10H16

FL

215

Pyrrole-2-carboxaldehyde

9.3

95.037

94.990, 72.960, 60.020

C5H5NO

FF

216

Cymene

9.4

134.110

123.050, 119.040, 104.970, 91.000, 72.930

C10H14

HP, FL

217

D-Limonene

9.5

136.125

136.080, 107.050, 93.050, 79.050

C10H16

FL, CP, MT

218

Eucalyptol

9.6

154.249

154.100, 139.000

C10H18O

FL, HP

219

2-Ethyl-5-propylcyclopentanone

9.6

154.136

154.120, 123.920, 112.000, 84.050

C10H18O

FF

220

1-Phenylpropane-1,2-diol

9.6

152.190

152.070, 136.020, 119.980

C9H12O2

CP

221

m-Cresol

9.7

108.058

108.030, 79.020

C7H8O

GC

222

3,5,5-Trimethylcyclohex-3-en-1-one

9.7

138.207

138.040, 95.980

C9H14O

ZZ

223

Phenylacetaldehyde

9.8

120.058

120.000, 91.030, 65.020

C8H8O

RG, FF, CP, HP, ZZ, ZL

224

Salicylaldehyde

9.8

122.121

122.030, 93.010, 76.000

C7H6O2

FL

225

γ-Caprolactone

10.0

114.068

85.000, 55.030

C6H10O2

CP

226

Ethyl 4-ethyloxy-2-oxobut-3-enoate

10.0

172.074

136.000, 99.050, 71.080

C8H12O4

CP

227

γ-Terpinene

10.0

136.234

136.020, 121.100, 93.050

C10H16

FL

228

2-Acetylpyrrole

10.1

109.053

109.930, 94.010, 66.020

C6H7NO

FF, HP

229

n-Heptanoic acid

10.4

130.099

127.920, 87.020, 73.010, 60.020

C7H14O2

RG

230

Terpinolene

10.5

136.234

136.080, 121.050

C10H16

FL

231

Linalool

10.7

154.136

121.010, 93.030, 71.030

C10H18O

ZZ

232

Isophorone

11.1

138.104

123.070, 126.030, 82.030

C9H14O

GC, ZZ

233

3-Phenylpropanal

11.7

134.073

134.040, 115.020, 103.050

C9H10O

RG, CP, ZZ

234

Menthol

11.9

156.151

134.020, 123.080, 109.050, 95.050, 85.080

C10H20O

GC, RG, ZZ, MT, BZ, CZ, FL, ZL

235

Octanoic acid

12.0

144.211

144.010, 99.030

C8H16O2

FF

236

Thymol

12.1

150.104

135.040, 122.000

C10H14O

RG, CP, HP

237

Terpineol

12.2

154.136

136.080, 121.020, 84.980

C10H18O

CP

238

Safranal

12.3

150.104

135.030, 121.060, 107.040, 79.030

C10H14O

ZZ

239

3,5,5-Trimethyl-4-methylen-2-cyclohexen-1-on

12.6

150.218

150.120, 135.010, 107.960

C10H14O

ZZ

240

5-Hydroxymethylfurfural

12.7

126.032

135.040, 108.960, 69.020

C6H6O3

CP, MT, ZX

241

3-Phenylpropanol

12.8

136.089

117.040, 103.010, 72.940

C9H12O

RG

242

5-Indanol

13.1

134.175

134.010, 118.970

C9H10O

HP

243

p-Allylphenol

13.1

134.073

134.030, 118.990, 105.010, 72.960

C9H10O

RG, HP

244

R-γ-Decalactone

13.2

170.131

133.970, 109.960, 95.030

C10H18O2

FF

245

Nonanoic acid

13.2

158.131

127.030, 115.020, 98.020

C9H18O2

FF, RG

246

Cinnamaldehyde**

13.4

132.058

131.030, 114.980, 77.030

C9H8O

RG, GC, FL, HP, CP, BZ, ZZ

247

1,3,3-Trimethyl-2-vinyl-1-cyclohexene

13.7

150.141

135.010, 121.000, 106.980, 76.920

C11H18

GC, ZZ

248

Cinnamyl alcohol

13.8

134.073

115.010, 92.030, 78.000

C9H10O

RG

249

o-Acetyl-p-cresol

13.9

150.068

135.010, 107.020

C9H10O2

ZZ

250

2-Methoxy-4-vinylphenol

13.9

150.174

135.070, 118.990, 88.970

C9H10O2

CP

251

4′-Hydroxy-2′-methylacetophenone

13.9

150.174

150.120, 136.010, 117.960, 89.960

C9H10O2

ZZ

252

1-Butyl-3-methylcyclohex-2-en-1-ol

14.0

168.151

134.970, 120.930, 77.000

C11H20O

HP

253

4,4,6-Trimethylcyclohex-2-en-1-ol

14.3

140.120

125.070, 84.010

C9H16O

ZZ

254

Apricolin

14.6

156.115

128.010, 85.000

C9H16O2

CP

255

2-Methoxyphenylacetone

14.7

164.084

135.0500, 121.020, 91.050

C10H12O2

RG

256

Modhephene

15.0

204.351

204.160, 189.960, 161.960

C15H24

MT

257

Berkheyaradulene

15.0

204.350

204.120, 190.020, 175.980

C15H24

MT

258

Vanillin

15.1

152.047

136.920, 122.940, 78.980

C8H8O3

CP, DXC, HP

259

trans-Caryophyllene

15.5

204.351

204.120, 192.000, 134.020

C15H24

MT

260

γ-Elemene

15.6

204.351

204.140, 191.980, 135.960

C15H24

MT

261

Coumarin

15.7

146.037

134.010, 118.010,

C9H6O2

FF, RG, HP

262

Paeonol

15.7

166.174

166.060, 148.980, 134.000, 106.090

C9H10O3

ZL

263

Massoia lactone

16.1

168.115

123.000, 97.010, 67.990

C10H16O2

RG, HP

264

γ-Selinene

16.1

204.351

204.120, 190.000, 175.960

C15H24

MT

265

α-Curcumene

16.2

202.335

202.070, 175.990, 118.020, 89.950

C15H22

MT

266

Pentanoic acid, 5-hydroxy-, 2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)phenyl ester

16.5

306.219

252.910, 191.090, 109.080

C19H30O3

GC

267

β-Sesquiphellandrene

16.7

204.351

204.120, 192.020

C15H24

MT

268

Dihydroactinidiolide

16.9

180.115

179.990, 137.070, 111.020

C11H16O2

CP

269

Valencene

16.9

204.351

204.160, 189.980, 161.960, 136.010

C15H24

MT

270

γ-Eudesmol

18.0

222.366

222.130, 206.020, 177.980

C15H26O

HP

271

trans-Isoelemicin

18.1

208.254

208.050, 178.030, 147.980

C12H16O3

HP

272

Agarospirol

18.1

222.366

222.100, 206.010, 178.980, 126.020

C15H26O

MT, BZ, CZ

273

β-Eudesmol

18.3

222.198

204.130, 189.120, 149.080

C15H26O

BZ, CZ, FF, HP, MT

274

α-Eudesmol

18.3

222.366

222.100, 206.010, 178.980

C15H26O

HP

275

Atractylon

18.4

216.319

202.100, 178.020, 136.100

C15H20O

CZ, BZ, MT

276

Sandacanol

18.7

208.183

176.120, 161.100, 90.950, 69.010

C14H24O

RG

277

1-[(1S,3aR,4R,7S,7aS)-4-Hydroxy-4-methyl-7-propan-2-yl-1,2,3,3a,5,6,7,7a-octahydroinden-1-yl]ethanone

19.2

238.193

238.140, 205.070, 153.050, 135.050

C15H26O2

ZX, CZ

278

Longifolenaldehyde

19.5

220.183

220.160, 206.950, 121.070, 104.990, 95.020

C15H24O

ZX

279

Senkyunolide J

19.5

226.121

182.060, 152.030, 125.980, 111.040

C12H18O4

FF

280

Isospathulenol

19.6

220.183

220.150, 205.120, 162.110, 119.070

C15H24O

ZX

281

1-epi-Cubenol

19.8

222.198

206.990, 179.080, 162.070, 147.090, 135.020

C15H26O

RG

282

Tetridamine

19.9

165.127

165.020, 149.100, 119.990

C9H15N3

MT

283

Cryptomeridiol

20.1

240.209

204.140, 149.090

C15H28O2

CZ, HP

284

Diisobutyl phthalate

20.5

278.344

278.120, 223.010, 149.030, 103.960

C16H22O4

CP

285

7,9-Ditert-butyl-1-oxaspiro[4.5]deca-6,9-diene-2,8-dione

21.0

276.173

261.050, 232.080, 217.100, 205.060, 175.050

C17H24O3

FL, ZL

286

β-Cyclocostunolide

22.6

232.318

232.140, 217.990, 204.000

C15H20O2

BZ

Abbreviation: CWD, Chushi Weiling Decoction; RT, retention time.


*Abbreviation: CZ, Cangzhu; HP, Houpo; CP, Chenpi; GC, Gancao, ZX, Zexie; FL, Fuling; ZL, Zhuling; RG, Rougui; BZ, Baizhu; ZZ, Zhizi; MT, Mutong; FF, Fangfeng; DXC, Dengxincao.


**Compared with reference substance.



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Total Components Determined of CWD

The total of 286 components from the samples of CWD included 93 terpenes, 37 flavonoids, 11 steroids, 12 phenylpropanoids, 8 alkaloids, 17 aromatics, 16 organic acids, 34 alcohols and esters, 26 simple ketones and aldehydes, and 32 other compounds.

From the perspective of medicinal herbs, there are 30 compounds in Cangzhu, 54 compounds in Houpo, 25 compounds in Chenpi, 35 compounds in Gancao, 19 compounds in Zexie, 37 compounds in Fuling, 14 compounds in Zhuling, 40 compounds in Rougui, 19 compounds in Baizhu, 33 compounds in Zhizi, 26 compounds in Mutong, 25 compounds in Fangfeng, and 2 compounds in Dengxincao in CWD.


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Research of Cracking Rules

To systematically and qualitatively analyze the chemical components in CWD, the MS behaviors of the samples were studied to summarize their cracking rules and characteristic fragment ions based on relevant literature.[19] [20] [21] [22] [23] [24] [25] [26] [27] [28] [29] [30] [31] [32] [33] [34] [35] [36] [37] [38] [39] [40]

Mass Spectrometric Cracking Rules of Terpenoids

Terpene compounds are the general term for compounds and their derivatives with a molecular formula multiple of isoprene. Based on relevant literature, the terpenoids in CWD were preliminarily classified: in the CWD, the terpenoids in Cangzhu (compounds 3, 27, 45, 47, 49, 51, 58, 63, 73, 81, 84, 92, 158, and 122), Baizhu (compounds 27, 51, 81, 92, and 114), and Mutong (compounds 71, 136, and 167) were mainly sesquiterpenoids.[19] [20] [21] [22] The terpenoids in Fuling (compounds 85, 91, 99, 102, 104, 105, 112, 120, 128, 137, 146, 147, 155, 160, 172, 173, 175, and 189) and Zhuling (compounds 153, 165, 170) were mainly lanostelane type triterpenes, while the terpenoids in Zexie (compounds 22, 109, 129, 132, 150, 154, 157, 159, 161, 174, 177, and 179) were mainly prototerpenane type tetracyclic triterpenes.[23] [24] [25] [26] [27] The terpenoids in Zhizi (compounds 8, 15, 16, 33, 94, 100, 113, 125, 167, and 186) were mainly iridoids and their glycosides.[28] [29] [30] In addition, there are also terpenoids (compounds 28, 30, 53, 78, 135, 139, 141, 143, 156, 176, and 180) in other medicinal herbs.[31] [32] [33]

There are three main rules for the cleavage of terpenoids: (1) when a compound forms a glycoside, it can lose all saccharides first, to obtain fragment ions. For example, genipin-1-O-gentiobioside (8; m/z 549.18096 [M − H]) of Zhizi is an iridoid glycoside compound containing one group of gentian disaccharide (i.e., two molecules of glucose). In its secondary mass spectrometry, genipin-1-O-gentiobioside sequentially lost two glucose groups, generating fragment ions of m/z 387.12365 [M – H - Glc] and 225.06502 [M – H - 2Glc]. (2) Terpene skeletons are prone to lose neutral groups such as CO, CO2, and H2O. (3) If the terpenoid skeleton forms a six-membered ring with unsaturated double bonds during mass spectrometry cleavage, it is prone to RDA cleavage. During the cracking process of genipin-1-O-gentiobioside, a six-membered ring containing unsaturated double bonds was generated, to obtain fragment ions of m/z 123.03313 ([Fig. 3]) through RDA cracking. This is consistent with the reference.[29] [30]

Zoom Image
Fig. 3 Mass fragmentation pathways and secondary mass spectra of genipin-1-O-gentiobioside.

Atractylenolide I (81; m/z 231.13876 [M + H]+) in Cangzhu and Baizhu is a sesquiterpene lactone. In the positive ion mode, the ester bond broke on the five-membered lactone ring, to generate fragment ions of m/z 189.12743. Then, fragment ions of m/z 163.11331 or 145.14062 were generated through the cracking progress of the six-membered ring ([Fig. 4]).

Zoom Image
Fig. 4 Mass fragmentation pathways and secondary mass spectra of atractylenolide I.

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Mass Spectrometric Cracking Rules of Flavonoids

Flavonoids are widely distributed in the plant kingdom, often forming glycosides through O-glycosidic bonds. Based on relevant literature,[28] [29] [30] [31] [32] [33] [34] [35] [36] the flavonoids in CWD were preliminarily classified. There were a total of 37 confirmed flavonoids in CWD (compounds 46, 2326, 31, 32, 36, 40, 50, 54, 60, 64, 65, 69, 72, 74-76, 80, 82, 95, 98, 110, 115, 124, 127, 140, 152, 164, 168, 178, 191, 192, and 194), mainly from medicinal herbs such as Chenpi, Fangfeng, Gancao, Rougui, and Zhizi. Through research on the cleavage patterns of flavonoids in CWD, we found that: (1) loss of saccharide groups tends to occur in flavonoid glycosides. (2) RDA cleavage reaction tends to occur on the C-ring of flavonoids. (3) Neutrality loss of CO, CO2, and H2O often occurs. These rules are consistent with reference.[34] [35]

Taking quercitrin (6; m/z 449.11080 [M + H]+) contained in Zhizi as an example, in the positive ion mode, the loss of rhamnose (m/z 146) occurred, generating fragment ions of m/z 303.96551 [M + H − Rha]+. Quercetin fragment ions continued to have RDA cleavage at positions 1,3A of the C-ring, generating 1,3A ions at m/z 153.06728. In addition, RDA cleavage could also occur at positions 1,2A; 0,2A; 1,4A; or 0,4A of the C-ring ([Fig. 5]). This cleavage pathway was believed to be reliable by comparing with reference.[34]

Zoom Image
Fig. 5 Mass fragmentation pathways and secondary mass spectra of quercetin.

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Mass Spectrometric Cracking Rules of Phenylpropanoids

Phenylpropanoid compounds include phenylpropanoic acids, coumarins, and lignans. Based on relevant literature,[31] [32] [33] [37] the phenylpropanoids in CWD were preliminarily classified. The phenylpropanoid compounds (compounds 7, 17, 29, 55, 62, 66, 70, 77, 86, 130, 134, and 261) in CWD mainly came from Houpo, Fangfeng, and Rougui. Phenylpropanoic acid ester bonds are prone to cleavage to generate phenylpropanoic acid fragment ions. Different characteristic skeleton fragment ions are generated due to different mother nucleus structures: fragment ions of m/z 179, 161, and 135 can be inferred to contain caffeoyl fragment ions, and m/z 193, 175, and 160 can be inferred to contain ferulic acid fragments ions, and m/z 163 and 119 can be inferred to contain para-coumarin acid fragment ions, which was consistent with the pyrolysis rule of phenylpropanoids in the positive ion mode described in the literature.[36] [38] The fragment ions often have a neutral loss of CO, H2O, and CO2.

Anomalin (29; m/z 427.17103 [M + H]+) contained in Fangfeng is a derivative of pyranocoumarin with a total of three ester bonds. In the positive ion mode, anomalin was prone to ester bond cleavage and neutral loss of 2-methyl-2-butenoic acid groups ([Fig. 6]), which can be referred to in the literature.[38]

Zoom Image
Fig. 6 Mass fragmentation pathways and secondary mass spectra of anomalin.

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Mass Spectrometric Cracking Rules of Phenols, Acids, and Esters

Under the conditions of dissociation, the main mass spectrometry cleavage pathway of phenolic compounds is the loss of substituents in the structure. Based on relevant literature,[26] [27] [28] [29] [30] [31] [32] [33] [34] [35] [36] the phenols, acids, and esters in CWD were preliminarily classified. There were a total of 44 confirmed phenolic, acid, and ester compounds in CWD (compounds 1, 18, 21, 37, 38, 41, 44, 56, 57, 59, 83, 87–89, 93, 96, 116, 117, 142, 145, 151, 182, 184, 187, 195, 198-201, 212, 221, 225, 226, 228, 230, 236, 244, 245, 250, 254, 266, 270, 279, and 284). In the secondary mass spectrometry of phenolic glycosides, high-abundance fragment ions often originate from the loss of saccharides. Carboxylic acids and their ester compounds are prone to α-cracking, neutral loss of R or OR' groups (depending on which bond of the O atom breaks), and loss of CO, generating [R + H]+ and [OR' + H]+ fragment ions in positive ion mode. Generally speaking, the ion peak intensity generated by aromatic compounds and their esters is stronger than that of fatty acids and their esters.[20] [21] [22] [23] [24]

Taking paeonolide (38; m/z 460.94828 [M + H]+), a component in Cangzhu, as an example, it has paeonol as a aglycone and contains a nonreducing terminal 1-α-arabinopyranoside. During the dissociation process, paeonolide gradually removed saccharide groups and generated fragment ions of m/z 167.13227. Afterward, fragment ions of m/z 137.13492 and phenol fragments were generated ([Fig. 7]).[30]

Zoom Image
Fig. 7 Mass fragmentation pathways and secondary mass spectra of paeonolide.

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Mass Spectrometric Cracking Rules of Alkaloids

Alkaloids are a class of natural compounds containing basic nitrogen atoms, often with nitrogen heterocyclic structures. Based on relevant literature,[21] [22] [33] [37] [38] [39] the alkaloids in CWD were preliminarily classified and the cracking rules of alkaloids were summarized. The alkaloid components (compounds 10, 11, 34, 35, 67, 119, 126, and 131) in CWD mainly included aporphine alkaloids, isoquinoline alkaloids, and other alkaloids, which are mainly from Houpo, Mutong, and Fangfeng. Alkaloids have various cleavage patterns based on the different C–N skeleton structures, among which the most important fragmentation patterns are four: (1) the groups connected to N atoms are prone to loss, generating fragments such as CH2, CH4, NH2, NH4, etc. (2) When the alkaloid contains hydroxyl substitutions, it can cause neutral loss of H2O and methylene. When the alkaloid contains carboxyl substituents, it can cause a loss of CO2. The alkaloid skeleton with multiple hydroxyl groups in the side chain is prone to breakage and dehydration rearrangement. (3) When the alkaloid has a tetrahydroisoquinoline structure, an RDA cleavage reaction can occur, producing complementary fragment ions. (4) After the cleavage of benzyl isoquinoline alkaloids, benzyl fragment ions will be produced, resulting in typical peaks that are different from other types of alkaloids.

Dauricine (131; m/z 625.32900 [M + H]+) in Mutong is a type of bis benzyl tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloid. In the positive ion mode, the cleavage at positions C-1 and C-1a would produce benzyl fragment ions at m/z 107.12712, which was a typical fragment ion different from the aporphine alkaloids mentioned above.[39] In the secondary mass spectrometry, after the loss of benzyl fragment ions, the mother nucleus fragment ions of dauricine, m/z 205.21913, continued to generate fragments ions of m/z 189.16320 and 161.15241 ([Fig. 8]).

Zoom Image
Fig. 8 Mass fragmentation pathways and secondary mass spectra of dauricine.

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Results on Network Pharmacology

Active Component and Targets Collection in CWD

After the screening (OB ≥ 30%, DL ≥ 0.18) and searching in relevant literature data, 143 chemical components for CWD were obtained from TCMSP. Furthermore, 1,051 targets for CWD were predicted by SwissTargetPrediction. A total of 4,174 related targets of “eczema” and “herpes zoster” were selected from the Drugbank database, the Genecards database, and the OMIM database. Finally, 1,051 targets of CWD and 4,174 disease-related targets were mapped to the Venn. A total of 362 overlapping targets were obtained.


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Analysis of the PPI Network and “Compounds–Targets” Network

A total of 362 intersection targets were inputted into STRING 11.0, and the results show that the network consists of 6,280 edges, with an average degree value of 34.7 and an average local clustering coefficient of 0.501, p < 1.0E-16.

Nodes with a degree value less than 25 were deleted, and 48 core target proteins were used to form the protein–protein interaction (PPI) core network, then isolated targets without interaction were removed, as shown in [Fig. 9]. In the PPI network diagram, different colored lines between targets represent different evidence, with green representing adjacent genes, red representing fusion genes, and blue representing co-occurrence genes. The thicker the connecting lines, the stronger the interaction between proteins, indicating more interactions between proteins rather than the expected interactions of a random set of proteins extracted from the genome. The top 10 core targets for degree ranking were CYP19A1 (cytochrome P450 family 19 subfamily A member 1), AR (androgen receptor), HMGCR (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase), ESR1 (estrogen receptor 1), PTGS2 (prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2), ALOX5 (arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase), SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin), NOS2 (nitric oxide synthase 2), ADORA3 (adenosine A3 receptor), and NR3C1 (nuclear receptor subfamily 3 group C member 1).

Zoom Image
Fig. 9 The PPI network of protein interaction relationships. PPI, protein–protein interaction.
Zoom Image

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Screening of Active Ingredients

According to the “compounds–targets” network, the compounds with the highest degree ranking indicated that they were more likely to participate in a certain treatment process and related signaling pathways, and had stronger interactions with target proteins. By intersecting 143 core components in network pharmacology with 287 components of CWD, 25 overlapping components were obtained, with their numbers and degree values shown in [Table 4]. This indicates that these components may have therapeutic effects on eczema and herpes zoster.

Table 4

Overlapping components of material basis and network pharmacology

Compd.

Component name

Herb-source (in Abbreviation[a])

Average shortest path length

Closeness centrality

Stress

Degree

157

Alisol J 23-acetate

ZX

2.547

0.393

1026334

50

170

Polyporusterone A

ZL

2.567

0.390

991250

48

178

Kaempferol

ZZ

2.555

0.391

887930

47

29

Anomalin

FF

2.575

0.388

992448

47

99

Dehydrotumulosic acid

FL

2.594

0.385

737238

46

151

Crepenynic acid

BZ

2.650

0.377

677680

40

120

16-Deoxyporicoic acid B

FL

2.626

0.381

463502

39

12

2-Hydroxyisoxypropyl-3-hydroxy-7-isopentene-2,3-dihydrobenzofuran-5-carboxylic

CZ

2.746

0.364

808492

34

162

Stigmast-4-ene-3,6-dione

RG

2.642

0.378

500454

33

167

Stigmasterol

MT, ZZ

2.757

0.363

172222

22

94

Geniposide

ZZ

2.813

0.355

210508

17

17

Erthro-guaiacy lglycerol

RG

2.813

0.355

243830

16

103

Icariside F2

CZ, BZ

2.944

0.340

304602

15

92

8β-Ethoxy atractylenolide III

CZ, BZ

2.905

0.344

227614

15

168

Hesperidin

CP

2.781

0.360

157740

13

149

Oleanolic acid-28-O-β-D-glucopyranoside

HP

2.920

0.342

51986

12

40

Nobiletin

CP

2.765

0.362

72624

11

173

Poricoic acid ZG

FL

2.940

0.340

34882

10

152

Citromitin

CP

2.797

0.357

47464

9

80

(+)-Leptolepisol C

RG

3.091

0.323

35944

9

58

Oxypaeoniflorin

CZ

3.131

0.319

25476

7

19

Sinapaldehyde 4-O-β-D-glucopyranoside

HP

3.258

0.307

27060

4

45

Atractyloyne

CZ

3.469

0.288

3016

4

116

Syringin

CZ

3.183

0.314

1620

3

65

Xambioona

GC

4.010

0.249

0

1

a Abbreviation: CZ, Cangzhu; HP, Houpo; CP, Chenpi; GC, Gancao; ZX, Zexie; FL, Fuling; ZL, Zhuling; RG, Rougui; BZ, Baizhu; ZZ, Zhizi; MT, Mutong; FF, Fangfeng.



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Gene Ontology and KEGG Pathway Enrichment Analysis

GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis was performed on key intersection target genes to obtain the top 25 GO and KEGG signaling pathways, and they were annotated separately. Based on the PPI network, pathway enrichment analysis used protein interaction and metabolic pathway information to predict the therapeutic mechanism of CWD. This is a method beneficial for studying the holistic nature of CWD from a multi-pathway and multi-target perspective and can transform the overall effects of TCM decoction into descriptions used in modern pharmacology.

As shown in [Fig. 10], GO enrichment analysis revealed a total of 52 pathways, and the enrichment results showed that the biological process mainly included pathways such as biological regulation, single organism process, cellular process, response to stimuli, and regulation of biological process; cellular component mainly included pathways such as cell, cell part, organelle, membrane and organelle part; molecular function mainly included pathways such as binding, catalytic activity, signal transducer activity, molecular transducer activity, and nucleic acid binding transcription factor activity.

Zoom Image
Fig. 10 Visualization and annotation of GO pathway enrichment analysis (top 25).

KEGG enrichment analysis resulted in a total of 194 pathways ([Fig. 11] ), covering multiple aspects such as metabolism, genetic information processing, environmental information processing, cellular processes, organismal systems, and human diseases. The top 25 mainly included the pathways in cancer, prostate cancer, proteoglycans in cancer, the vascular endothelial growth factor signaling pathway, the C-type lectin receptor signaling pathway, and human cytomegalovirus infection.

Zoom Image
Fig. 11 Visualization and annotation of KEGG pathway enrichment analysis (top 25).

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Reactome Enrichment Analysis

Using the Metascape platform, Reactome analysis covered a total of 15 pathways ([Fig. 12]), including signaling by interleukins, nuclear receptor transcription pathway, metabolism of lipids, signaling by receptor tyrosine kinases, and metabolism of steroids ([Table 5]).

Table 5

Reactome pathways (top 5)

Category

GO ID

Description

Count

%

Log10(P)

Log10(q)

Reactome Gene Sets

R-HSA-449147

Signaling by Interleukins

14

29.17

−13.89

−10.7

Reactome Gene Sets

R-HSA-383280

Nuclear receptor transcription pathway

8

16.67

−13.81

−10.7

Reactome Gene Sets

R-HSA-556833

Metabolism of lipids

15

31.25

−12.49

−9.78

Reactome Gene Sets

R-HSA-9006934

Signaling by receptor tyrosine kinases

11

22.92

−9.32

−6.86

Reactome Gene Sets

R-HSA-8957322

Metabolism of steroids

7

14.58

−8.32

−5.91

Note: Log10(P) describes the significant level of gene enrichment, the smaller the value, the higher the significance; Log10(q) describes corrected Log10(P) value.


Zoom Image
Fig. 12 Visualization and annotation of Reactome enrichment analysis.

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Molecular Docking Analysis

Based on the above research, alisol J 23-acetate (157), kaempferol (178), anomalin (29), icariside F2 (103), and cinnamaldehyde (246) ([Fig. 13]) with high degree values were selected. These five components belong to naturally occurring major active constituents in the monarch drug Cangzhu, ministerial drugs Zhizi, Zexie, Fangfeng, and adjuvant drug Rougui of CWD, which have representative structures as terpene, flavonoid, phenylpropanoid, aromatic glycoside, and aldehyde.[27] [28] [29] [30] [31] Therefore, they were used to molecularly dock with core targets CYP19A1, AR, and HMGCR (HMG-CoA) ([Fig. 14]) using autodock software. The mode with the lowest binding energy was selected for plotting. The dark part represents the 3D conformation of the target protein, while the highlighted part represents the ligand molecular structure in [Fig. 15]. The results showed that the molecular docking binding energies of CYP19A1, AR, HMGCR with alisol J 23-acetate (157), kaempferol (178), anomalin (29), cinnamaldehyde (246) were the lowest, mostly lower than −5.00 kcal/mol, indicating strong binding activity between these active ingredients and the targets ([Table 6]).

Table 6

The lowest binding energy of molecular docking between CYP19A1, AR, HMGCR, and different components

The lowest binding energy (kcal·mol−1)

CYP19A1

AR

HMGCR

Alisol J 23-acetate

−7.19

−6.16

−5.77

Kaempferol

−5.95

−5.00

−5.17

Anomalin

−7.08

−4.60

−5.38

Icariside F2

−2.78

−1.87

−1.83

Cinnamaldehyde

−4.38

−4.81

−5.32

Zoom Image
Fig. 13 Chemical structures of alisol J 23-acetate (157), kaempferol (178), anomalin (29), icariside F2 (103), and cinnamaldehyde (246).
Zoom Image
Fig. 14 Target protein conformation of CYP19A1, AR, and HMGCR (HMG-CoA).
Zoom Image
Fig. 15 Molecular docking results. The 3D conformation of target protein CYP19A1, AR, and HMGCR was presented from left to right, respectively.

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Discussion

CWD is commonly used in the treatment of eczema and herpes zoster. It clears heat removes dampness, and strengthens the spleen and diuresis. Nevertheless, there is still insufficient research on the material basis and pharmacology of CWD. This study integrates the research results of UPLC-Q-TOF-MS, GC-MS, network pharmacology, and molecular docking to provide a basis for further research.

Through analysis from the PPI network and pathway enrichment (KEGG, GO, and Reactome) of CWD, it was found that the main target proteins of CWD in the treatment of eczema and herpes zoster were CYP19A1, AR, HMGCR, ESR1, PTGS2, etc. Based on the interactions and metabolic pathway information involved in these proteins, enrichment analysis can be summarized as follows: CWD may regulate C-type lectin receptor signaling pathway, human cytomegalovirus infection, interleukin-17 signaling pathway, inflammatory mediators of TRP channel, serotonergic synapses, arachidonic acid metabolism, and Fc-ε-biological pathways such as the RI signaling pathway, to act on anti-inflammatory and antiviral mechanisms. The target proteins above have been proven to be key enzymes in metabolic pathways such as the synthesis of estrogen, synthesis of cholesterol, prostaglandin biosynthesis, and arachidonic acid metabolism.[41] [42] [43] [44] This result indicates CWD may have the potential to regulate immune response mechanisms, which are usually the most important in the treatment of eczema and herpes zoster diseases.

From the perspective of active ingredients, some researchers have confirmed that natural products from 14 Chinese medicinal materials in CWD such as oxypaeoniflorin (58), kaempferol (178), geniposide (94), icariside F2 (103), and hesperidin (168), have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-infective effects.[45] [46] [47] [48] [49] These components can reduce the expression level of inflammatory factors and reduce vascular permeability. Molecular docking also showed good binding activity of the above natural products with target proteins CYP19A1, AR, and HMGCR (HMG-CoA). These results to some extent mutually verified the analysis of the PPI network and pathway enrichment.

Besides, research has shown that natural steroid compounds in Chinese herbal medicine can exert therapeutic effects through these receptor signaling pathways, meanwhile, steroid hormone-like regulatory effects are also an important way to treat immune diseases.[50] [51] [52] Atractylodin and atractylone (atractyloyne, 45) contained in Cangzhu also have diuretic effects.[45] [46] Alisol (Alisol J 23-acetate, 157) in Zexie can significantly increase liver tissue SOD content, inhibit leukotriene production and β-hexosaminase release, reduce oxidative damage, and inhibit delayed allergic reactions.[53] Polyporusterone (polyporusterone A, 170) and poricoic acid (16-deoxyporicoic acid B, 120; poricoic acid ZG, 173) in Fuling and Zhuling can regulate blood lipids and reduce sodium and water retention. The sterones and sterols (ergone, cerevisterol) in Fuling have been proven to have diuretic functions, while increasing urine output, they can also increase the excretion of electrolytes such as K+, Na+, and Cl. Fuling extract poricoic acid can play a similar role as an aldosterone antagonist.[54] [55] The pharmacological effects of these compounds are consistent with the “dehumidification” and “diuretic” effects of CWD and can reflect the possible steroid hormone-like regulatory effects to adjust the water-electrolyte metabolism.

In summary, all the analyses and examples indicate that CWD may have therapeutic effects on eczema and herpes zoster through the above core proteins, pathways, and ingredients from Chinese medicinal materials.


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Conclusion

This study conducted a systematic chemical composition analysis of the classic prescription, CWD. The material basis of CWD was preliminarily characterized by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS and GC-MS techniques. A total of 286 chemical components were identified. The mass spectrometry fragmentation patterns of some terpenoids, flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, phenolic esters, and alkaloids in CWD were summarized. Through subsequent research, 25 overlapping components in material basis and network pharmacology were selected, to provide a basis for further research on the quality standards of CWD.

At the same time, network pharmacology, GO, KEGG, and Reactome enrichment analysis reveal that potential therapeutic mechanisms of action of CWD might be: (1) anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and mediated immune response; (2) regulating steroid metabolism. Meanwhile, molecular docking indicated that alisol J 23-acetate, kaempferol, anomalin, and cinnamaldehyde of CWD tend to combine with core target proteins at a low level of binding energy.

This study provides ideas and methods for the basic research of CWD and gives evidence support for clinical medication.


#
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Conflict of Interest

None declared.

  • References

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  • 2 Xing JJ, Yang GY, Duan YQ. Treatment of 30 cases of subacute eczema of spleen deficiency and dampness accumulation type with modified prescription of Chushi Weiling Decoction and compound glycyrrhetinic acid glycoside [in Chinese]. Chinese Journal of Dermatovenerology of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine 2011; 10 (06) 369-370
  • 3 Diao QC, Liu Y. Consensus of TCM diagnosis and treatment experts on eczema [in Chinese]. Chinese Journal of Dermatovenereology of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine 2021; 20 (05) 517-521
  • 4 Zhang XH. Etiology, pathogenesis, and clinical research of eczema [in Chinese]. Zhonghua Linchuang Yishi Zazhi 2011; 39 (02) 14-16
  • 5 Xiong M, Luo ZC. Research progress on epidemiology of herpes zoster. J Clin Med Pract 2022; 26 (07) 144-148
  • 6 Cheng HB, Wu JP, Wang MM. Etiology and pathogenesis of discussing snake strand sore from ancient books of traditional Chinese medicine [in Chinese]. Sichuan Zhongyi 2016; 34 (10) 21-22
  • 7 Zhou DM, Chen WW. Traditional Chinese medicine diagnosis and treatment guidelines for snake string sore (Revised in 2014) [in Chinese]. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2015; 56 (13) 1163-1168
  • 8 Liu ZY, Ma YB, Wang JS. et al. Zhao Bingnan's experience in treating herpes zoster [in Chinese]. Chinese Journal of Dermatovenereology of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine 2017; 16 (04) 365-367
  • 9 Huang QQ. Clinical observation on 26 cases of subacute eczema treated with modified Chushi Weiling Decoction [in Chinese]. Hainan Yixue 2001; 12 (07) 67-68
  • 10 Li GR, Sun LY. Clinical trial on the treatment of spleen deficiency and dampness accumulation syndrome of herpes zoster with modified Chushi Weiling Decoction [in Chinese]. Chinese Journal of Dermatovenereology of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine 2020; 19 (03) 261-264
  • 11 Huang BX, Qin LL, Lan YY. et al. Clinical research progress in the treatment of eczema with traditional Chinese medicine [in Chinese]. Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine 2021; 24 (02) 77-81
  • 12 Xie XD, Li XH. The application of classic prescriptions in the treatment of eczema in the “The Golden Mirror of Medicine” [in Chinese]. Yunnan Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Materia Medica 2011; 32 (11) 49-50
  • 13 Du JX, An CC, Xun JF. Overview of research on the treatment of eczema with Chushi Weiling decoction [in Chinese]. Modern Journal of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine 2020; 29 (30) 3410-3412 ,3420
  • 14 Sun ZG, Lu JZ, Zhou SJ. et al. Research progress of traditional Chinese medicine in treating eczema [in Chinese]. China Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy 2017; 32 (08) 3617-3619
  • 15 Hu YM, Xi JY. Exploration on the medication law and potential mechanism prediction of modern and famous TCM doctors for the treatment of eczema based on data mining and network pharmacology [in Chinese]. Chinese Journal of Library and Information Science for Traditional Chinese Medicine 2023; 47 (06) 52-58
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  • 19 Wang YM, Wang ZB, Sun YP. et al. Research progress on chemical structure and biological activity of sesquiterpenes from Atractylodes [In Chinese]. Zhong Cao Yao 2021; 52 (01) 299-309
  • 20 Li Y, Yang XW. Chemical constituents of Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma stir-fried with wheat bran [in Chinese]. Zhongguo Xiandai Zhongyao 2018; 20 (09) 1074-1079
  • 21 Liu GY, Wang Y, Ma SC. et al. Overview on the chemical constituents and pharmacological activities of the plants from Akebia [in Chinese]. Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences 2004; 39 (05) 330 –332+352
  • 22 Mimaki Y, Doi S, Kuroda M, Yokosuka A. Triterpene glycosides from the stems of Akebia quinata. Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo) 2007; 55 (09) 1319-1324
  • 23 Zuo J, Qi TL, Hu XY. Research progress in chemical constituents and modern pharmacology of Poria Cocos [in Chinese]. Acta Chinese Medicine and Pharmacology 2023; 51 (01) 110-114
  • 24 Kang A, Guo JR, Xie T. et al. Analysis of the triterpenes in Poria Cocos by UHPLC-LTQ-orbitrap MS/MS [in Chinese]. Journal of Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2014; 30 (06) 561-565
  • 25 Chen XM, Zhou WW, Wang CL. et al. Study on chemical constituent of Mycelium of Polyporus umbellatus (Pers.) fries [in Chinese]. Zhongguo Xiandai Zhongyao 2014; 16 (03) 187-191
  • 26 Ohsawa T, Yukawa M, Takao C, Murayama M, Bando H. Studies on constituents of fruit body of Polyporus umbellatus and their cytotoxic activity. Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo) 1992; 40 (01) 143-147
  • 27 Deng Y, Liu AN, Wang XM. et al. Analysis of the Triterpenes in the extract of Alisma Orientalis(Sam.) Juzep by HPLC-TOF-MS [in Chinese]. Chemical Analysis and Meterage 2015; 24 (06) 11-14
  • 28 Gao Y, Wang Y, Zheng YH. et al. Investigation of potential pharmacodynamic substances and mechanism of Gardeniae Fructus in treatment of ischemic stroke based on HPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS and network pharmacology [in Chinese]. Zhongguo Shiyan Fangjixue Zazhi 2021; 27 (14) 119-128
  • 29 Wang XY, Zhang L, Wang TQ, Zhu ZY. Analysis on chemical constituents of Gardenia jasminoides by UHPLC-Q-TOFMS [in Chinese]. Zhong Yao Cai 2013; 36 (03) 407-410
  • 30 Sheng YH, Wang H, Li SD. et al. Identification of chemical components in different parts of Eucommia ulmoides by HPLC-Q-TOF-MS and investigation of its hypoglycemic activities [In Chinese]. Zhong Cao Yao 2023; 54 (19) 6228-6240
  • 31 Shen Q, Chen F, Luo J. Comparison studies on chemical constituents of essential oil from Ramulus Cinnamomi and Cortex Cinnamomi by GC-MS [in Chinese]. Zhong Yao Cai 2002; 25 (04) 257-258
  • 32 Wu YF, Lu P, Liu CX. et al. Analysis of chemical compositions in Houpo (Magnoliae Officinalis Cortex) Before and after Processing with Ginger by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS [in Chinese]. Liaoning Zhongyiyao Daxue Xuebao 2023; 25 (09) 74-78
  • 33 Zhang WW, Yao CL, Chen XB. et al. Identification of chemical constituents of Xiaochengqi Decoction by UPLC-Q-TOF/Fast DDA combined with UNIFI software [in Chinese]. Zhongguo Zhongyao Zazhi 2022; 47 (08) 2121-2133
  • 34 Ye XY, Wu JM, Yang J. et al. Research progress on chemical constituents of Gynura divaricate and mass spectrometry-based fragmentation rules of representative components [in Chinese]. Zhong Cao Yao 2021; 52 (21) 6687-6700
  • 35 Zhang K, Xu X, Li T. et al. Chemome profiling of Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium using UHPLC-IT-TOF-MS [in Chinese]. Zhongguo Zhongyao Zazhi 2020; 45 (04) 899-909
  • 36 Xu YL, Li CX, Yang FX. et al. Identification of chemical constituents in the classical prescription Shaoyao Gancao decoction based on UHPLC-Q-exactive orbitrap MS [in Chinese]. Journal of Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2021; 37 (06) 938-948
  • 37 Liu YJ, Ren XL, Huo JH. et al. Analysis on constituents of chromone in Fangfeng (Ledebouriellaseseloides) by UPLC-Q-TOF/MS [in Chinese]. Chinese Journal of Traditional Medical Science and Technology 2018; 25 (03) 355-361 ,384
  • 38 Ren XL, Huo JH, Sun GD. et al. Analysis of chemical components as coumarin in Saposhnikovia divaricata by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS [in Chinese]. China Pharmacy 2019; 30 (03) 349-354
  • 39 Chen JY, Xie YF, Zhou TX. et al. Chemical constituents of Menispermum dauricum . Chin J Nat Med 2012; 10 (04) 292-294
  • 40 Li HX. Studies on the Chemical Constituents and Biological Activities of Juncus effusus L. MA thesis [In Chinese]. Wuhan: South-Central Minzu University; 2007
  • 41 Angelina A, Martín-Cruz L, de la Rocha-Muñoz A, Lavín-Plaza B, Palomares O. C-Type lectin receptor mediated modulation of T2 immune responses to allergens. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 2023; 23 (03) 141-151
  • 42 Zhang CJ, Yang PR, Ma Y. New target for autoimmune diseases treatment: act1-mediated IL-17 signalling pathway. J Immunol 2012; 28 (05) 441-444
  • 43 Huang JG, Gong QY, Li GM. Serotoninergic system in human skin [in Chinese]. Zhongguo Pifu Xingbingxue Zazhi 2005; 19 (09) 564-566
  • 44 Wang XC, Ji AGNF. NF- kappaB signal pathway and inflammation [in Chinese]. Sheng Li Ke Xue Jin Zhan 2014; 45 (01) 68-71
  • 45 Zhuang D, Qin J, Wang HY. et al. Medicinal compositions of Atractylodis Rhizoma: a review [in Chinese]. Shengwu Jiagong Guocheng 2021; 19 (03) 306-313
  • 46 Liu GS, Sun B, Ming L. et al. Pharmacological comparision of the volatile component and water soluble component of Atractylodes Chinensis [In Chinese]. Acta Universitatis Medicinalis Anhui 2003; 38 (02) 124
  • 47 Liu W, Deng LH, Zhao YQ. Summary of pharmacological effects of Atractylodes Macrocephala and its active ingredients [in Chinese]. Acta Chinese Medicine and Pharmacology 2021; 49 (10) 116-118 ,F0003
  • 48 Bu YH, Lu T, Wu H. et al. The studies of chemical components and their pharmacological effects in Gardenia Jasminoides [in Chinese]. Journal of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine 2020; 39 (06) 89-93
  • 49 Ou LJ, Liu QD. Research progress on pharmacological effects of Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium . China Pharm 2006; 17 (10) 787-789
  • 50 Liang B, Gao JZ, Teng HR. et al. Exploring medication rules and action mechanism of the national patents TCM compound on perianal eczema based on data mining and network pharmacology [In Chinese]. Clinical Journal of Chinese Medicine 2022; 14 (04) 1-10
  • 51 Chen S, Wang CC, Zhu DQ. et al. Research progress of plant natural steroids [in Chinese]. Qilu Gongye Daxue Xuebao 2023; 37 (02) 66-73
  • 52 Wang XM, Zhang JM, Li HY. Therapeutic effect of low-dose steroids on the herpetic neuralgia [in Chinese]. Zhongguo Pifu Xingbingxue Zazhi 2003; 17 (04) 246-247
  • 53 Zhang WJ, Han DW, Li J. Advances in chemical compositions and pharmacological effects of Alismatis Rhizoma [In Chinese]. Acta Chinese Medicine and Pharmacology 2021; 49 (12) 98-102
  • 54 Wang TY, Zhang FF, Ren YY. et al. Research progress on chemical constituents and pharmacological actions of Polyporus Umbellatus [In Chinese]. Shanghai Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2017; 51 (04) 109-112
  • 55 Yang PS, Zhang N. Pharmacological effects and research progress of Poria cocos [In Chinese]. Nei Mongol Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2021; 40 (11) 155-156

Address for correspondence

Danwei Ouyang, PhD
Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd., China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry
285 Gebaini Road, Shanghai 201203
People's Republic of China   

Publication History

Received: 20 November 2023

Accepted: 27 April 2024

Article published online:
31 May 2024

© 2024. The Author(s). This is an open access article published by Thieme under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, permitting unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction so long as the original work is properly cited. (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

Georg Thieme Verlag KG
Rüdigerstraße 14, 70469 Stuttgart, Germany

  • References

  • 1 National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Notice on the release of the “Catalogue of Ancient Classic Prescriptions (First Batch)” [in Chinese]. Accessed April 13, 2018 at: http://www.natcm.gov.cn/kejisi/zhengcewenjian/2018-04-16/7107.html
  • 2 Xing JJ, Yang GY, Duan YQ. Treatment of 30 cases of subacute eczema of spleen deficiency and dampness accumulation type with modified prescription of Chushi Weiling Decoction and compound glycyrrhetinic acid glycoside [in Chinese]. Chinese Journal of Dermatovenerology of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine 2011; 10 (06) 369-370
  • 3 Diao QC, Liu Y. Consensus of TCM diagnosis and treatment experts on eczema [in Chinese]. Chinese Journal of Dermatovenereology of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine 2021; 20 (05) 517-521
  • 4 Zhang XH. Etiology, pathogenesis, and clinical research of eczema [in Chinese]. Zhonghua Linchuang Yishi Zazhi 2011; 39 (02) 14-16
  • 5 Xiong M, Luo ZC. Research progress on epidemiology of herpes zoster. J Clin Med Pract 2022; 26 (07) 144-148
  • 6 Cheng HB, Wu JP, Wang MM. Etiology and pathogenesis of discussing snake strand sore from ancient books of traditional Chinese medicine [in Chinese]. Sichuan Zhongyi 2016; 34 (10) 21-22
  • 7 Zhou DM, Chen WW. Traditional Chinese medicine diagnosis and treatment guidelines for snake string sore (Revised in 2014) [in Chinese]. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2015; 56 (13) 1163-1168
  • 8 Liu ZY, Ma YB, Wang JS. et al. Zhao Bingnan's experience in treating herpes zoster [in Chinese]. Chinese Journal of Dermatovenereology of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine 2017; 16 (04) 365-367
  • 9 Huang QQ. Clinical observation on 26 cases of subacute eczema treated with modified Chushi Weiling Decoction [in Chinese]. Hainan Yixue 2001; 12 (07) 67-68
  • 10 Li GR, Sun LY. Clinical trial on the treatment of spleen deficiency and dampness accumulation syndrome of herpes zoster with modified Chushi Weiling Decoction [in Chinese]. Chinese Journal of Dermatovenereology of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine 2020; 19 (03) 261-264
  • 11 Huang BX, Qin LL, Lan YY. et al. Clinical research progress in the treatment of eczema with traditional Chinese medicine [in Chinese]. Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine 2021; 24 (02) 77-81
  • 12 Xie XD, Li XH. The application of classic prescriptions in the treatment of eczema in the “The Golden Mirror of Medicine” [in Chinese]. Yunnan Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Materia Medica 2011; 32 (11) 49-50
  • 13 Du JX, An CC, Xun JF. Overview of research on the treatment of eczema with Chushi Weiling decoction [in Chinese]. Modern Journal of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine 2020; 29 (30) 3410-3412 ,3420
  • 14 Sun ZG, Lu JZ, Zhou SJ. et al. Research progress of traditional Chinese medicine in treating eczema [in Chinese]. China Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy 2017; 32 (08) 3617-3619
  • 15 Hu YM, Xi JY. Exploration on the medication law and potential mechanism prediction of modern and famous TCM doctors for the treatment of eczema based on data mining and network pharmacology [in Chinese]. Chinese Journal of Library and Information Science for Traditional Chinese Medicine 2023; 47 (06) 52-58
  • 16 National Pharmacopoeia Commission of the PRC. Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China. Part I. Beijing: Chemical Industry Press 2020 ; 65, 88, 107, 142, 153, 156, 168, 199, 239, 251, 259, 263, 331, 364. Accessed May 17, 2024 at: https://ydz.chp.org.cn/#/main
  • 17 National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Notice on the release of “the Key Information Research Principles of Ancient Classic and Famous Prescriptions” and “the Key Information Table of Ancient Classic and Famous Prescriptions (7 Prescriptions)” [in Chinese]. Accessed November 10, 2020 at: http://www.natcm.gov.cn/kejisi/zhengcewenjian/2020-11-10/18132.html
  • 18 Chen N, Guo JX, Chu YQ. et al. Historical evolution and clinical application of famous classical formulas zhulingtang [in Chinese]. Zhongguo Shiyan Fangjixue Zazhi 2023; 29 (18) 146-155
  • 19 Wang YM, Wang ZB, Sun YP. et al. Research progress on chemical structure and biological activity of sesquiterpenes from Atractylodes [In Chinese]. Zhong Cao Yao 2021; 52 (01) 299-309
  • 20 Li Y, Yang XW. Chemical constituents of Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma stir-fried with wheat bran [in Chinese]. Zhongguo Xiandai Zhongyao 2018; 20 (09) 1074-1079
  • 21 Liu GY, Wang Y, Ma SC. et al. Overview on the chemical constituents and pharmacological activities of the plants from Akebia [in Chinese]. Chinese Pharmaceutical Sciences 2004; 39 (05) 330 –332+352
  • 22 Mimaki Y, Doi S, Kuroda M, Yokosuka A. Triterpene glycosides from the stems of Akebia quinata. Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo) 2007; 55 (09) 1319-1324
  • 23 Zuo J, Qi TL, Hu XY. Research progress in chemical constituents and modern pharmacology of Poria Cocos [in Chinese]. Acta Chinese Medicine and Pharmacology 2023; 51 (01) 110-114
  • 24 Kang A, Guo JR, Xie T. et al. Analysis of the triterpenes in Poria Cocos by UHPLC-LTQ-orbitrap MS/MS [in Chinese]. Journal of Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2014; 30 (06) 561-565
  • 25 Chen XM, Zhou WW, Wang CL. et al. Study on chemical constituent of Mycelium of Polyporus umbellatus (Pers.) fries [in Chinese]. Zhongguo Xiandai Zhongyao 2014; 16 (03) 187-191
  • 26 Ohsawa T, Yukawa M, Takao C, Murayama M, Bando H. Studies on constituents of fruit body of Polyporus umbellatus and their cytotoxic activity. Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo) 1992; 40 (01) 143-147
  • 27 Deng Y, Liu AN, Wang XM. et al. Analysis of the Triterpenes in the extract of Alisma Orientalis(Sam.) Juzep by HPLC-TOF-MS [in Chinese]. Chemical Analysis and Meterage 2015; 24 (06) 11-14
  • 28 Gao Y, Wang Y, Zheng YH. et al. Investigation of potential pharmacodynamic substances and mechanism of Gardeniae Fructus in treatment of ischemic stroke based on HPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS and network pharmacology [in Chinese]. Zhongguo Shiyan Fangjixue Zazhi 2021; 27 (14) 119-128
  • 29 Wang XY, Zhang L, Wang TQ, Zhu ZY. Analysis on chemical constituents of Gardenia jasminoides by UHPLC-Q-TOFMS [in Chinese]. Zhong Yao Cai 2013; 36 (03) 407-410
  • 30 Sheng YH, Wang H, Li SD. et al. Identification of chemical components in different parts of Eucommia ulmoides by HPLC-Q-TOF-MS and investigation of its hypoglycemic activities [In Chinese]. Zhong Cao Yao 2023; 54 (19) 6228-6240
  • 31 Shen Q, Chen F, Luo J. Comparison studies on chemical constituents of essential oil from Ramulus Cinnamomi and Cortex Cinnamomi by GC-MS [in Chinese]. Zhong Yao Cai 2002; 25 (04) 257-258
  • 32 Wu YF, Lu P, Liu CX. et al. Analysis of chemical compositions in Houpo (Magnoliae Officinalis Cortex) Before and after Processing with Ginger by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS [in Chinese]. Liaoning Zhongyiyao Daxue Xuebao 2023; 25 (09) 74-78
  • 33 Zhang WW, Yao CL, Chen XB. et al. Identification of chemical constituents of Xiaochengqi Decoction by UPLC-Q-TOF/Fast DDA combined with UNIFI software [in Chinese]. Zhongguo Zhongyao Zazhi 2022; 47 (08) 2121-2133
  • 34 Ye XY, Wu JM, Yang J. et al. Research progress on chemical constituents of Gynura divaricate and mass spectrometry-based fragmentation rules of representative components [in Chinese]. Zhong Cao Yao 2021; 52 (21) 6687-6700
  • 35 Zhang K, Xu X, Li T. et al. Chemome profiling of Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium using UHPLC-IT-TOF-MS [in Chinese]. Zhongguo Zhongyao Zazhi 2020; 45 (04) 899-909
  • 36 Xu YL, Li CX, Yang FX. et al. Identification of chemical constituents in the classical prescription Shaoyao Gancao decoction based on UHPLC-Q-exactive orbitrap MS [in Chinese]. Journal of Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2021; 37 (06) 938-948
  • 37 Liu YJ, Ren XL, Huo JH. et al. Analysis on constituents of chromone in Fangfeng (Ledebouriellaseseloides) by UPLC-Q-TOF/MS [in Chinese]. Chinese Journal of Traditional Medical Science and Technology 2018; 25 (03) 355-361 ,384
  • 38 Ren XL, Huo JH, Sun GD. et al. Analysis of chemical components as coumarin in Saposhnikovia divaricata by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS [in Chinese]. China Pharmacy 2019; 30 (03) 349-354
  • 39 Chen JY, Xie YF, Zhou TX. et al. Chemical constituents of Menispermum dauricum . Chin J Nat Med 2012; 10 (04) 292-294
  • 40 Li HX. Studies on the Chemical Constituents and Biological Activities of Juncus effusus L. MA thesis [In Chinese]. Wuhan: South-Central Minzu University; 2007
  • 41 Angelina A, Martín-Cruz L, de la Rocha-Muñoz A, Lavín-Plaza B, Palomares O. C-Type lectin receptor mediated modulation of T2 immune responses to allergens. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 2023; 23 (03) 141-151
  • 42 Zhang CJ, Yang PR, Ma Y. New target for autoimmune diseases treatment: act1-mediated IL-17 signalling pathway. J Immunol 2012; 28 (05) 441-444
  • 43 Huang JG, Gong QY, Li GM. Serotoninergic system in human skin [in Chinese]. Zhongguo Pifu Xingbingxue Zazhi 2005; 19 (09) 564-566
  • 44 Wang XC, Ji AGNF. NF- kappaB signal pathway and inflammation [in Chinese]. Sheng Li Ke Xue Jin Zhan 2014; 45 (01) 68-71
  • 45 Zhuang D, Qin J, Wang HY. et al. Medicinal compositions of Atractylodis Rhizoma: a review [in Chinese]. Shengwu Jiagong Guocheng 2021; 19 (03) 306-313
  • 46 Liu GS, Sun B, Ming L. et al. Pharmacological comparision of the volatile component and water soluble component of Atractylodes Chinensis [In Chinese]. Acta Universitatis Medicinalis Anhui 2003; 38 (02) 124
  • 47 Liu W, Deng LH, Zhao YQ. Summary of pharmacological effects of Atractylodes Macrocephala and its active ingredients [in Chinese]. Acta Chinese Medicine and Pharmacology 2021; 49 (10) 116-118 ,F0003
  • 48 Bu YH, Lu T, Wu H. et al. The studies of chemical components and their pharmacological effects in Gardenia Jasminoides [in Chinese]. Journal of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine 2020; 39 (06) 89-93
  • 49 Ou LJ, Liu QD. Research progress on pharmacological effects of Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium . China Pharm 2006; 17 (10) 787-789
  • 50 Liang B, Gao JZ, Teng HR. et al. Exploring medication rules and action mechanism of the national patents TCM compound on perianal eczema based on data mining and network pharmacology [In Chinese]. Clinical Journal of Chinese Medicine 2022; 14 (04) 1-10
  • 51 Chen S, Wang CC, Zhu DQ. et al. Research progress of plant natural steroids [in Chinese]. Qilu Gongye Daxue Xuebao 2023; 37 (02) 66-73
  • 52 Wang XM, Zhang JM, Li HY. Therapeutic effect of low-dose steroids on the herpetic neuralgia [in Chinese]. Zhongguo Pifu Xingbingxue Zazhi 2003; 17 (04) 246-247
  • 53 Zhang WJ, Han DW, Li J. Advances in chemical compositions and pharmacological effects of Alismatis Rhizoma [In Chinese]. Acta Chinese Medicine and Pharmacology 2021; 49 (12) 98-102
  • 54 Wang TY, Zhang FF, Ren YY. et al. Research progress on chemical constituents and pharmacological actions of Polyporus Umbellatus [In Chinese]. Shanghai Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2017; 51 (04) 109-112
  • 55 Yang PS, Zhang N. Pharmacological effects and research progress of Poria cocos [In Chinese]. Nei Mongol Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 2021; 40 (11) 155-156

Zoom Image
Fig. 1 Total ion flow diagram of CWD components in (A) positive ion mode and (B) negative ion mode of UPLC-Q-TOF-MS. CWD, Chushi Weiling Decoction.
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Fig. 2 Total ion flow diagram of CWD components in GC-MS. CWD, Chushi Weiling Decoction.
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Fig. 3 Mass fragmentation pathways and secondary mass spectra of genipin-1-O-gentiobioside.
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Fig. 4 Mass fragmentation pathways and secondary mass spectra of atractylenolide I.
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Fig. 5 Mass fragmentation pathways and secondary mass spectra of quercetin.
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Fig. 6 Mass fragmentation pathways and secondary mass spectra of anomalin.
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Fig. 7 Mass fragmentation pathways and secondary mass spectra of paeonolide.
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Fig. 8 Mass fragmentation pathways and secondary mass spectra of dauricine.
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Fig. 9 The PPI network of protein interaction relationships. PPI, protein–protein interaction.
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Fig. 10 Visualization and annotation of GO pathway enrichment analysis (top 25).
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Fig. 11 Visualization and annotation of KEGG pathway enrichment analysis (top 25).
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Fig. 12 Visualization and annotation of Reactome enrichment analysis.
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Fig. 13 Chemical structures of alisol J 23-acetate (157), kaempferol (178), anomalin (29), icariside F2 (103), and cinnamaldehyde (246).
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Fig. 14 Target protein conformation of CYP19A1, AR, and HMGCR (HMG-CoA).
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Fig. 15 Molecular docking results. The 3D conformation of target protein CYP19A1, AR, and HMGCR was presented from left to right, respectively.