Qualitative and quantitative studies on chemical constituents of Ling-gui-zhu-gan decoction: In vitro and in vivo

Ling-gui-zhu-gan decoction has significant therapeutic effects in the treatment of diseases related to phlegm and fluid retention. In this study, we aimed to qualitatively characterize the chemical constituents of Ling-gui-zhu-gan decoction in vitro and in vivo by HPLC coupled to Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance MS, and quantitively determine the contents of typical chemical constituents by HPLC method. As a result, a total of 75 chemical constituents were discovered including 37 flavonoids and their glycosides, 20 saponins, 9 sterols, 3 organic acids and their derivatives, 3 lactones, 2 coumarins, and 1 alcohol. Among them, 17 chemical constituents were specifically identified. Subsequently, an HPLC method was established for simultaneous determination of seven chemical constituents. Finally, a total of 40 prototype components were initially detected by HPLC-MS method in the biological samples of rats after their water extract was orally administrated. Among them, 29, 27, 12, and 32 prototype components were detected in plasma, bile, urine, and feces, respectively. Moreover, 34 metabolites, including 16 phase II metabolites, were detected for the first time. In conclusion, this study lays the foundation for the identification of chemical components in vitro and in vivo and the elucidation of the potential pharmacodynamic components of Ling-gui-zhu-gan decoction.