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[Study on the combination principles about aconite roots by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry]
Yong Wang1, Zhi-qiang Liu, Feng-rui Song
1Laboratory of New Drug Research, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China.
Yao Xue Xue Bao = Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica
|September 30, 2003
Summary
Acidity influences the hydrolysis of aconite alkaloids. High acidity inhibits hydrolysis, increasing the toxicity of aconite root decoctions, crucial for understanding traditional Chinese medicine combinations.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Analytical Chemistry
- Traditional Chinese Medicine
Context:
- Aconite roots are a key component in many traditional Chinese medicine formulas.
- Understanding the chemical interactions of aconite in complex herbal decoctions is vital for safety and efficacy.
- Nordeterpenoid alkaloids are the primary active compounds in aconite roots.
Purpose:
- To investigate the chemical principles governing the combination of aconite roots with other herbs.
- To analyze the impact of different herbal combinations on the hydrolysis of aconite alkaloids.
- To determine the role of pH in the stability and potential toxicity of aconite decoctions.
Summary:
- Electrospray ionization trap tandem mass spectrometry was used to analyze alkaloids in aconite root decoctions with and without other herbs.
- The study found that diester-diterpenoid alkaloid hydrolysis occurred in decoctions with liquorice but was inhibited with Pinellia tuber or Schisandra.
- Acidity was identified as a critical factor, with higher acidity inhibiting alkaloid hydrolysis and potentially increasing toxicity.
Impact:
- This research provides a chemical basis for understanding the synergistic or antagonistic effects in traditional Chinese medicine formulations containing aconite.
- The findings highlight the importance of pH control in preparing aconite decoctions to manage toxicity.
- It offers insights into optimizing the use of aconite in herbal medicine for safer and more effective therapeutic outcomes.