UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS Quantitative Analyses of Multicomponent Hu Gan Tablets

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Pharmacology
• Traditional Chinese Medicine Analysis

Background:

• Analysis of multi-component Chinese patent medicines like Hu Gan tablets (HGT) is increasingly important.
• HGT presents challenges due to complex structures, similar compounds, and mixed solubility of components.
• Existing analytical methods may not adequately address the simultaneous determination of numerous active compounds in HGT.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a simple, rapid UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS method for the simultaneous determination of 18 active compounds in HGT.
• To address the analytical challenges posed by the complex composition of HGT.
• To establish a reliable method for quality control of HGT from various manufacturers.

Main Methods:

• Ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS) was employed.
• The method utilized both positive and negative ionization modes with multiple reaction monitoring (MRM).
• A gradient elution with a mobile phase of 0.1% formic acid in water and acetonitrile was used over a 12.0-minute run time.

Main Results:

• The UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS method achieved simultaneous determination of 18 active compounds in HGT.
• The method demonstrated excellent linearity (R² > 0.99), precision (RSD < 4.00%), accuracy (94.89-110.03%), and recovery (70.00-126.09%).
• The analysis time was significantly reduced, making the method efficient.

Conclusions:

• The developed UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS method is simple, rapid, and suitable for the quality assurance of Hu Gan tablets.
• This method provides a robust tool for analyzing multi-component traditional Chinese medicines.
• The technique may be valuable for future research on HGT and similar complex formulations.