RRLC-TOF/MS in identification of plasma constituents and metabolites of epimedium in rats after intragastric administration

Abstract

Objective To identify the constituents and metabolites of epimedium in rat plasma by rapid-resolution liquid chromatography-time of flight mass spectrometry(RRLC-TOF/MS)after intragastric administration,so as to explore the active ingredients and metabolites of epimediumin vivo.Methods The separation was performed on a SHISEIDO MG C18 reverse phase column(3.0 mm×100 mm,3μm).The mobile phase consisted of water containing 0.1% formic acid and acetonitrile was used as gradient elute.The flow rate was 0.6mL/min,post-column split ratio was 31,and the temperature of column was 25℃.Time-of-flight mass spectrometer(TOF/MS)and electrospray ion source(ESI)were applied for qualitative analysis under positive ion mode,with the mass scan range being m/z 100-1 000.Results Three prototype constituents and 4metabolites of epimedium were identified in rat plasma.Conclusion A rapid and efficient RRLC-TOF/MS method has been established for studying the constituents and metabolites of epimediumin vivo,which provides a reference for further pharmacodynamics experiments.