Qualitative and quantitative analysis of Fructus Corni using ultrasound assisted microwave extraction and high performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array UV detection and time-of-flight mass spectrometry

The first successful combination of ultrasound assisted microwave extraction (UAME) with liquid chromatography analysis is described for the quality evaluation of Fructus Corni, a commonly used traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Due to their multifarious biological activities, seven representative bioactive constituents (two phenolics and five iridoids) were chosen as targets for the quality assessment. The chromatographic separation was performed on a C18 Aq column with gradient elution using methanol and aqueous solution containing 0.2% acetic acid. The quantitative method developed was validated and successfully applied to determine the seven markers in 12 batches of Fructus Corni extract from various habitats. Significant variations were demonstrated in the contents of seven compounds. Further 13 components were tentatively identified by online TOF mass analysis.