Simultaneous qualitative and quantitative analysis of 11 active compounds in rhubarb using two reference substances...

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Analytical Chemistry
• Natural Products Chemistry

Background:

• Multi-component analysis is crucial for traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) quality control.
• Shortage and high cost of reference substances hinder comprehensive analysis.
• The substitute method offers a viable alternative for TCM quality assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate an economical and efficient method for simultaneous determination of multiple compounds in TCM.
• To address the challenges posed by the limited availability and high cost of reference substances.
• To establish a reliable quality control strategy for TCM using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC).

Main Methods:

• Development of a "two reference substances for determination of multiple components" method.
• Qualitative analysis using linear calibration with two reference substances.
• Quantitative analysis employing relative correction factors and UHPLC.
• Validation of the method's accuracy, precision, and stability across different conditions.

Main Results:

• The linear calibration method with two reference substances demonstrated superior accuracy and reduced deviation compared to the relative retention time method.
• Relative correction factors determined using chrysophanol showed excellent reproducibility and stability.
• UHPLC analysis coupled with the two-reference-substance strategy yielded results comparable to the external standard method.
• The method proved adaptable to variations in instruments, columns, and wavelength settings.

Conclusions:

• The "two reference substances for determination of multiple components" strategy combined with UHPLC is an economical, efficient, and reliable approach for TCM quality control.
• This method effectively overcomes the limitations associated with reference substance availability and cost.
• The developed strategy is suitable for routine quality control of traditional Chinese medicines, ensuring accuracy and environmental friendliness.