Structural and Compositional Changes in Two Marine Shell Traditional Chinese Medicines: A Comparative Analysis Pre-...

Area of Science:

• Marine Biology
• Pharmacology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Arcae concha and Meretricis concha cyclinae concha are marine shellfish used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
• These shellfish share similar compositions and efficacies, often undergoing calcination for clinical application.
• Understanding their variations is crucial for developing these marine shell TCMs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate variations in inorganic and organic components of Arcae concha and Meretricis concha cyclinae concha from different regions.
• To analyze the effects of calcination on their composition and structure.
• To provide a foundation for the development and application of marine shell TCM.

Main Methods:

• Spectroscopic techniques (infrared, X-ray, X-ray fluorescence) for crystal and trace element analysis.
• Thermogravimetric analysis for decomposition during heating.
• BCA protein assay for protein quantification.
• Principal Component Analysis (PCA) for inorganic element classification.

Main Results:

• No significant regional variations were observed in the raw materials.
• Calcination transformed calcium carbonate from aragonite to calcite.
• Protein content significantly decreased post-calcination, while CaCO3 dissolution increased.
• PCA highlighted differences in trace element composition, suggesting varied therapeutic focuses.

Conclusions:

• Calcination significantly alters the composition and structure of Arcae concha and Meretricis concha cyclinae concha.
• Increased CaCO3 dissolution after calcination aligns with clinical use.
• These findings support the comprehensive utilization and quality control of marine shell TCMs.