# Rapid Identification of the Chemical Components ofIlex rotunda Thunb Using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS

Authors: Xinxin Chen; Junmao Li; Renyikun Yuan; Youqiong Zhuo; Yangling Chen; Chenwei Zhang; Ming Chen; Hong-Wei Gao; Zhenjie Liu; Yulin Feng; Zheng-Tao Wang; Shilin Yang
Journal: Journal of Chemistry
 (2021)

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## Abstract

Ilicis Rotundae Cortex (IRC) consists of the bark ofIlex rotunda Thunb, and its chemical constituents mainly include flavonoid glycosides, phenols, and triterpenoid saponins. In this study, a preliminary analysis was performed to identify and obtain the chemical components from IRC to better control the quality of the medicinal materials and provide a chemical basis for the study of the efficacy of the active components. Simple and efficient sample pretreatment and ultrasonic-assisted extraction methods were used to analyze the mass spectrum fragments and fracture modes in the anion mode by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. Using a two-step strategy, the neutral loss, diagnostic ions, and characteristic fragments were studied to screen diverse skeletons and substitutions, and the possible compounds were identified by comparison with databases. The representative compounds were compared with the standard, and the mass spectrogram was found to match perfectly. Thus, our findings reveal that this method is feasible and reliable and can be used to analyze the chemical components of IRC. We identified 105 compounds, including 22 triterpenoid saponins, 15 chlorogenic acids, 33 phenylpropanoids and phenylpropanosides, 3 iridoids, 1 flavonoid, 10 lignans, 12 glycosides, and 9 other compounds. This method lays the foundation for further elucidating the pharmacodynamics of IRC and provides a practical method for the identification of IRC.


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## Body

## 1. Introduction

Ilicis Rotundae Cortex (IRC) is a special medicinal material used by the Yao nationality in China and has been included in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2020 Edition. Modern pharmacological studies have shown that IRC extract has several effects such as reducing coronary artery flow, slowing heart rate, improving hypoxia tolerance, and antiarrhythmic effects. Notwithstanding that it is often used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases in a clinical setting, the active components and mechanism of action of IRC remain unclear [1–3].Scholars both overseas and in China have extensively studied the chemical composition, pharmacological actions, and clinical applications of this drug [4–8]. The main constituents are triterpenes and their saponins, sesquiterpenes, diterpenes, flavonoid glycosides, aromatic compounds, and other chemical components, among which triterpenes and their saponins are one of the main chemical components. Although some progress has been made in the pharmacological study of IRC, research on its chemical components is still not comprehensive. Thus, it is urgent to lucubrate these rich medicinal material resources to provide a chemical component basis for the further later study of medicinal materials.Nowadays, liquid mass spectrometry (MS) has been widely used for the qualitative and quantitative analyses of complex samples. Quadrupole time-of-flight (Q-TOF) MS can be used to obtain both precise mass numbers of the MS and MS/MS for small molecular compounds and proteins [9–12]. However, in the case of complex samples, characterization of active compounds is still a challenge owing to the large and complex MS data. Several techniques, such as neutral loss and diagnostic ion filtration, have been developed to eliminate or reduce interfering ions and to achieve the goal of high-speed identification and screening of active compounds.In this study, we used neutral loss, diagnostic ion screening, and characteristic ion fragmentation as filtering strategies assisted by database matching and compared our findings with the standard. Lastly, a method for the rapid identification of the chemical constituents of IRC extract was achieved.


## 2. Experimental

### 2.1. Chemicals and Reagents

IRC was acquired from Guangxi Yulin Zhen Caotang Chinese Medicinal Decoction Pieces Co., Ltd. (Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China). Acetonitrile and methanol (Optima LC/MS, suitable for UHPLC-UV) were obtained from Fisher (New Jersey, USA). Formic acid was purchased from Aladdin (Bay City, USA). Distilled water was purchased from Hangzhou Wahaha Group Co., Ltd. (Hangzhou, China). The fifteen standard compounds of IRC, including 1,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid, 3,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid, 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid, chlorogenic acid, neochlorogenic acid, cryptochlorogenic acid, syringin, kudinoside H, ilexgenin A, 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid, 3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde, rotundic acid, caffeic acid, ilexsaponin A, and pedunculoside, were purchased from Chengdu Must Bio-Technology Co., Ltd. (Chengdu, China). All medicinal materials were identified by experts, and standard compounds were analyzed using HPLC to confirm purity > 98%.


### 2.2. Sample Preparation

IRC was crushed, and about 1.0 g was weighed, placed in a conical flask, and extracted using 40 mL of 70% methanol (v/v) for 2 h by ultrasound. The supernatant was centrifuged at 12000 rpm for 15 min and stored at 4°C for UPLC-Q-TOF‐MS/MS analysis [13–16].All standard compounds were accurately weighed (1.0 mg), dissolved in 1.0 mL methanol, diluted to ppb level, mixed at 50µL each, and stored at 4°C for UPLC-Q-TOF‐MS/MS analysis.


### 2.3. Instrumentation Conditions

A Nexera X2 LC-30A ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatograph (Shimazu, Japan) series Q-TOFTM 5600 high-resolution mass spectrometer equipped with an ESI ion source was used.


#### 2.3.1. UPLC Conditions

A Welch C18 column (2.1 mm × 100 mm, 1.7 µm) was used at an optimal temperature of 40°C and a detection wavelength of 250 nm. The flow rate and sample injection volume were rigidly controlled at 0.3 mL/min and 1 µL, respectively. The mobile phase was 0.1% aqueous formic acid (A) and acetonitrile (B). The elution gradient was as follows: 0.01 min, 5% B; 1 min, 5% B; 4 min, 10% B; 10 min, 15% B; 20 min, 16% B; 27 min, 31% B; 33 min, 59% B; 41 min, 95% B; 42 min, 95% B; and 42.1 min, Stop B.


#### 2.3.2. Mass Spectrometry Conditions

An electrospray ion source (ESI) was used, and scanning was in the negative ion mode over a scanning range ofm/z 5–1250. The MS parameters were optimized as follows: ion source temperature (TEM), 550°C; ion spray voltage floating (ISVF), −4.5 kV; curtain gas (CUR), 35 kPa; atomization gas (GS1) and auxiliary gas (GS2), 55 kPa; and declustering potential (DP), −100 V [17–19]. TOF-MS-IDA-MS/MS was used for data acquisition. The TOF/MS first-level prescan was 150 ms, the ion accumulation time of triggering the second-level scan TOF/MS/MS was 100 ms, the collision energy (CE) was −35 eV, and the collision energy superposition (CES) was 25 V. The methods to trigger the second level were information-dependent acquisition (IDA), multiple quality deficit (MMDF), and dynamic background subtraction (DBS), which were the superior and the most appropriate parameters to trigger the second-level scan. The second-level scan was a priority for samples that met the conditions.


### 2.4. Data Processing

Analyst TF 1.6 and XIC Manager of PeakView (AB Company in the US) were used for data processing.


## 2.1. Chemicals and Reagents

IRC was acquired from Guangxi Yulin Zhen Caotang Chinese Medicinal Decoction Pieces Co., Ltd. (Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China). Acetonitrile and methanol (Optima LC/MS, suitable for UHPLC-UV) were obtained from Fisher (New Jersey, USA). Formic acid was purchased from Aladdin (Bay City, USA). Distilled water was purchased from Hangzhou Wahaha Group Co., Ltd. (Hangzhou, China). The fifteen standard compounds of IRC, including 1,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid, 3,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid, 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid, chlorogenic acid, neochlorogenic acid, cryptochlorogenic acid, syringin, kudinoside H, ilexgenin A, 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid, 3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde, rotundic acid, caffeic acid, ilexsaponin A, and pedunculoside, were purchased from Chengdu Must Bio-Technology Co., Ltd. (Chengdu, China). All medicinal materials were identified by experts, and standard compounds were analyzed using HPLC to confirm purity > 98%.


## 2.2. Sample Preparation

IRC was crushed, and about 1.0 g was weighed, placed in a conical flask, and extracted using 40 mL of 70% methanol (v/v) for 2 h by ultrasound. The supernatant was centrifuged at 12000 rpm for 15 min and stored at 4°C for UPLC-Q-TOF‐MS/MS analysis [13–16].All standard compounds were accurately weighed (1.0 mg), dissolved in 1.0 mL methanol, diluted to ppb level, mixed at 50µL each, and stored at 4°C for UPLC-Q-TOF‐MS/MS analysis.


## 2.3. Instrumentation Conditions

A Nexera X2 LC-30A ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatograph (Shimazu, Japan) series Q-TOFTM 5600 high-resolution mass spectrometer equipped with an ESI ion source was used.


### 2.3.1. UPLC Conditions

A Welch C18 column (2.1 mm × 100 mm, 1.7 µm) was used at an optimal temperature of 40°C and a detection wavelength of 250 nm. The flow rate and sample injection volume were rigidly controlled at 0.3 mL/min and 1 µL, respectively. The mobile phase was 0.1% aqueous formic acid (A) and acetonitrile (B). The elution gradient was as follows: 0.01 min, 5% B; 1 min, 5% B; 4 min, 10% B; 10 min, 15% B; 20 min, 16% B; 27 min, 31% B; 33 min, 59% B; 41 min, 95% B; 42 min, 95% B; and 42.1 min, Stop B.


### 2.3.2. Mass Spectrometry Conditions

An electrospray ion source (ESI) was used, and scanning was in the negative ion mode over a scanning range ofm/z 5–1250. The MS parameters were optimized as follows: ion source temperature (TEM), 550°C; ion spray voltage floating (ISVF), −4.5 kV; curtain gas (CUR), 35 kPa; atomization gas (GS1) and auxiliary gas (GS2), 55 kPa; and declustering potential (DP), −100 V [17–19]. TOF-MS-IDA-MS/MS was used for data acquisition. The TOF/MS first-level prescan was 150 ms, the ion accumulation time of triggering the second-level scan TOF/MS/MS was 100 ms, the collision energy (CE) was −35 eV, and the collision energy superposition (CES) was 25 V. The methods to trigger the second level were information-dependent acquisition (IDA), multiple quality deficit (MMDF), and dynamic background subtraction (DBS), which were the superior and the most appropriate parameters to trigger the second-level scan. The second-level scan was a priority for samples that met the conditions.


## 2.3.1. UPLC Conditions

A Welch C18 column (2.1 mm × 100 mm, 1.7 µm) was used at an optimal temperature of 40°C and a detection wavelength of 250 nm. The flow rate and sample injection volume were rigidly controlled at 0.3 mL/min and 1 µL, respectively. The mobile phase was 0.1% aqueous formic acid (A) and acetonitrile (B). The elution gradient was as follows: 0.01 min, 5% B; 1 min, 5% B; 4 min, 10% B; 10 min, 15% B; 20 min, 16% B; 27 min, 31% B; 33 min, 59% B; 41 min, 95% B; 42 min, 95% B; and 42.1 min, Stop B.


## 2.3.2. Mass Spectrometry Conditions

An electrospray ion source (ESI) was used, and scanning was in the negative ion mode over a scanning range ofm/z 5–1250. The MS parameters were optimized as follows: ion source temperature (TEM), 550°C; ion spray voltage floating (ISVF), −4.5 kV; curtain gas (CUR), 35 kPa; atomization gas (GS1) and auxiliary gas (GS2), 55 kPa; and declustering potential (DP), −100 V [17–19]. TOF-MS-IDA-MS/MS was used for data acquisition. The TOF/MS first-level prescan was 150 ms, the ion accumulation time of triggering the second-level scan TOF/MS/MS was 100 ms, the collision energy (CE) was −35 eV, and the collision energy superposition (CES) was 25 V. The methods to trigger the second level were information-dependent acquisition (IDA), multiple quality deficit (MMDF), and dynamic background subtraction (DBS), which were the superior and the most appropriate parameters to trigger the second-level scan. The second-level scan was a priority for samples that met the conditions.


## 2.4. Data Processing

Analyst TF 1.6 and XIC Manager of PeakView (AB Company in the US) were used for data processing.


## 3. Results and Discussion

### 3.1. Optimization of LC-MS/MS Conditions

IRC is a complex system containing over a hundred compounds. To obtain high-quality MS peaks, an appropriate extraction method, mobile phase, and elution rate must be selected to improve the reproducibility, selectivity, and peak shape. To obtain more fragment ions for IRC identification, the positive and negative ions were compared. The sensitivity of most substances in the negative ion mode is higher than that in the positive ion mode. Furthermore, between ultrasonic extraction and thermal reflux extraction, the former was obviously superior to the latter for IRC, as reflux extraction might destroy the thermally unstable compounds. After adopting ultrasonic extraction at length, the chemical composition of IRC was analyzed in the negative ion mode. The chemical components in IRC were analyzed using a two-part strategy. As for the mobile phase, we studied the suitability of acetonitrile, methanol, pure water, and 0.1% formic acid in water and finally used acetonitrile and 0.1% formic acid in water as the mobile phases at a flow rate of 0.3 mL/min.First, we determined the precise molecular weight of the compounds using high-resolution MS and deduced their molecular formula using MS. Next, we analyzed and classified compounds based on neutral loss, diagnostic ions, and characteristic fragments. Lastly, the typical compounds in each category were selected and compared with the standard compounds (Figure1). The final results showed that the predicted components were completely consistent with the mass spectrum of the standard components, suggesting that our method was feasible and reliable for the prediction of chemical components in IRC.Figure 1
Schematic diagram of the integrative strategy.The retention time and mass spectrum of each chemical component in IRC were analyzed. Through consulting and referring to the relevant literature and database search, the compounds were confirmed by comparing the base peak diagram with the reference material. Gratifyingly, 105 compounds in IRC were preliminarily identified, which included 22 triterpenoid saponins, 15 chlorogenic acids, 33 phenylpropanoids and phenylpropanosides, 3 iridoids, 1 flavonoid, 10 lignans, 12 glycosides, and 9 other compounds. The total ion chromatogram (TIC) for the 105 identified compounds is shown in Figure2(a) and was sequenced using peak time. The 15 reference compounds (M10: 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid; M12: chlorogenic acid; M14: 3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde; M24: neochlorogenic acid; M25: syringin; M27: cryptochlorogenic acid; M28: caffeic acid; M59: 1,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid; M61: 3,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid; M68: 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid; M87: ilexsaponin A; M88: pedunculoside; M89: rotundic acid; M90: kudinoside H; M96: ilexgenin A) matched perfectly with the mass spectrum fragments and retention time of the identified components. Our findings indicated the accuracy and reliability of our method. All compounds are listed in Table 1.Figure 2
TIC of (a) Ilicis Rotundae Cortex (IRC) and (b) the 15 mixed standard compounds in the negative ion mode.
(a)(b)Table 1
Identification of the chemical composition of IRC.
No.Retention (min)Formula[M-H]− (m/z)Error (ppm)Fragment ions (m/z)Identify10.94C18H32O16HCOOH549.167971.3503.1644, 341.1107, 221.066, 207.0509, 179.0558Trisaccharide20.96C12H22O11HCOOH387.114750.9341.1089, 179.0558, 161.0449, 131.0354, 119.0356, 89.0258, 71.0164, 59.0175Sucrose31.4C17H26O11HCOOH451.145960.5405.1425, 314.932, 275.2195, 243.0867, 195.0657, 180.0423, 137.023Galioside41.7C16H24O10HCOOH421.13484−0.7375.1285, 357.1186, 352.9389, 195.0654, 179.0551, 162.0321, 145.0297, 119.0359, 101.0236, 89.0248, 71.014, 59.0179Tecomosid52.39C16H22O10373.11371−0.8252.0673, 236.917, 211.0617, 151.0396, 149.0607, 136.0155, 134.0372, 59.01693,4-Dihydroxybenzenepropanoate methoxy glucopyranosyloxy62.83C16H28O11HCOOH441.16129−0.2395.156, 293.0881, 263.1123, 233.0659, 161.0452, 101.02571-(3-Methylbutanoyl)-6-apiosylglucose73.56C11H16O8275.07718−0.2231.0869, 187.0626, 159.0646, 113.0597, 97.0681, 95.05, 83.0498, 58.01051,3-Bis (3-carboxypropyl) propanedioate83.57C10H16O6231.08728−0.6159.0673, 146.9645, 113.0607, 95.0511, 75.0104, 58.0072Acetoxy-methylmalonate diethyl93.76C14H18O9329.08751−0.9167.0346, 152.0113, 123.0452, 108.0221Vanillic acid glucoside104.01C7H6O4153.019994.3109.0296, 108.0246, 91.0208, 65.00843,4-Dihydroxybenzoic acid114.66C15H20O10359.09803−0.9312.9175, 197.0446, 182.0208, 166.9982, 153.0545, 138.0322, 123.008, 95.01264-Glucopyranosyloxy-3,5-dimethoxybenzoic acid124.81C16H18O9∗353.08769−0.3191.0559, 179.0348, 161.0237, 135.0451Chlorogenic acid135.2C17H24O11403.12416−1.1267.0449, 223.0608, 208.037, 193.0134, 165.0558, 153.0558, 138.0305, 137.0235, 119.0345, 113.0262, 95.0136, 85.0347Methyloleoside145.57C7H6O3137.02515119.0167, 108.0222, 92.0271, 81.0368, 65.0131, 53.0493,4-Dihydroxybenzaldehyde155.59C11H14O6241.07169−0.3226.0479, 211.0605, 193.0501, 178.0268, 163.0032, 153.0184, 135.0087, 123.0089, 107.0132, 95.0150, 69.03791-Benzyl-3-phenoxypiperidine165.86C16H18O10369.08245−0.7207.0514, 179.0345, 135.0449, 129.0201, 109.03, 101.025, 99.0112, 85.03215-[3-(3,4-Dihydroxy-phenyl)-acryloyloxy]-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroxy-cyclohexanecarboxylic acid175.98C23H34O14HCOOH579.193080533.1893, 519.1802, 371.135, 341.1084, 323.098, 209.082, 179.00559, 161.0468, 119.0344, 89.0255Syringinoside186.08C17H22O10385.11397−0.1353.08872, 316.9467, 248.9595, 191.0559, 180.8741, 161.0215, 112.9858, 59.0173Sinapoyl glucoside196.11C14H18O8313.09274−0.5244.927, 179.0347, 161.0241, 151.0602, 135.0448, 119.0329, 89.0242, 73.0351, 59.0176Unknown206.13C17H26O10389.14491−1.1227.0914, 209.0806, 179.0343, 152.048, 137.0233, 101.0259, 71.0152Secologanol216.19C21H32O10443.19214−0.3375.0721, 283.0836, 237.1483, 184.26, 149.0443, 119.0348, 89.0262, 59.0151Penstemide226.47C19H26O12445.13487−0.6376.9048, 2833.1021, 179.0347, 161.0241, 135.04482,3,4-Trihydroxybutyl, 6-[3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-2-propenoate] glucopyranoside236.54C15H18O9341.08762−0.5323.0781, 281.0665, 251.0559, 221.0451, 179.0345, 161.0242, 135.04533-Glucoside caffeic acid246.71C16H18O9∗353.08773−0.2191.0559, 179.035, 161.0243, 127.0404, 85.0314Neochlorogenic acid256.89C17H24O9HCOOH417.14021−0.1371.1351, 209.0818, 207.0507, 194.0577, 176.048Syringin266.89C11H14O4209.082050.6194.0573, 191.0708, 179.0343, 176.0472, 161.0236, 151.0395, 133.0302, 121.0296, 105.0345, 77.04083,5-Dimethoxyhydrocinnamic acid277.18C16H18O9∗353.08764−0.5191.0558, 179.0349, 173.0349, 135.0453, 111.0453, 93.0354Cryptochlorogenic acid287.54C9H8O4179.03483−0.8135.0447, 117.0338, 107.0491, 89.0396, 65.0087Caffeic acid297.78C19H30O10HCOOH463.18187−0.5417.1777, 181.0874, 166.0632, 161.0478, 119.03343-Hydroxy-2-[4-(3-hydroxypropyl)-2-methoxyphenoxy] propyl glucopyranoside307.93C15H20O8327.108630.3190.9281, 147.0453, 103.0552, 89.02814-(3-Hydroxypropyl)phenyl glucopyranosiduronic acid318.12C18H26O10HCOOH447.15065−0.3401.1457, 310.9294, 293.0864, 269.1029, 174.9566, 161.0466, 129.0171, 101.0251, 71.0153Icariside F2328.14C20H28O11443.15578−0.2425.1457, 375.0666, 245.0768, 179.0337, 137.02314-{[3-(3,4-Dihydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-2-propen-1-yl]oxy}-2-hydroxy-3-methylbutyl glucopyranoside338.2C21H28O13487.146010.6418.9183, 350.9283, 307.0846, 282.9368, 179.0336, 161.0239, 135.04543-O-(6-Deoxy-mannopyranosyl)-4-O-[3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-2-propenoyl]-glucose348.28C20H28O12459.15077−0.1297.1175, 179.0345, 161.0241, 135.04492,3-Dihydroxy-3-methyl-butyl-caffeoyl glucopyranoside358.46C21H32O11HCOOH567.208850.9359.1468, 341.1379, 329.1399, 314.112, 269.0806Patrinioside H368.56C28H38O14HCOOH643.225551.8597.2214, 567.211, 435.1661, 405.1555, 375.1444, 357.1339, 342.1088, 297.0374, 223.0962, 181.0498, 166.0262Ligraminol B378.92C16H18O8337.09256−1191.0552, 163.0388, 119.0509, 111.05, 93.0351, 69.03991,3,5-Trihydroxy-4-[[3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-2-propen-1-yl]oxy]cyclohexanecarboxylic acid389.19C17H22O9HCOOH415.12445−0.3369.1184, 207.066, 192.0424, 177.019, 149.0241, 121.0303Sinapaldehyde glucoside399.19C11H12O4207.06609−0.9192.0426, 177.0192, 149.0239, 134.0367, 121.0295, 105.0367, 93.0349, 77.0413Sinapaldehyde409.33C20H32O11HCOOH493.192680447.1872, 235.0849, 211.0967, 196.0755, 161.04523-Hydroxy-2-[4-(3-hydroxypropyl)-2, 6-dimethoxyphenoxy]propyl glucopyranoside4110.27C17H20O9367.1032−0.7193.0499, 191.0557, 173.0453, 155.0352, 134.0379, 111.0454, 93.03574-O-E-Caffeoylquinic acid methyl ester4210.44C9H10O3165.055971.5147.0448, 119.0489, 103.0572, 78.9605, 73.0048p-Coumaric acid4310.93C26H32O14567.172450.9549.1645, 341.0875, 281.0656, 251.0557, 221.0447, 193.0499, 179.034, 161.0243, 133.0299Caudatoside F4411.1C24H40O12HCOOH565.250640.8519.2452, 429.0967, 387.2019, 293.0855, 225.1479, 191.0534, 149.0434, 101.02364-[3-[(6-O-Arabinofuranosyl-glucopyranosyl)oxy]butyl]-4-hydroxy-3,5,5-trimethyl-2-cyclohexen-1-one4511.15C18H24O10399.12934−0.8237.0699, 179.356, 161.0248, 135.04511-Hydroxy-2-propanyl 6-O-[3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-2-propenoyl]-glucopyranoside4611.59C19H26O11429.14004−0.5293.0827, 233.0666, 157.0091, 135.0453, 89.0263Neohancoside C4712.07C25H34O14557.188121179.0353, 161.0245, 135.0457Urceolatoside A4812.2C27H32O14579.172491455.1203, 395.1017, 353.0885, 311.0802, 221.0448, 179.0346, 161.0238, 135.0454, 89.0232Unknown4912.92C34H46O18HCOOH787.269723.9787.2735, 741.2677, 579.2113, 417.1557, 402.1335, 181.0497Eleutheroside5012.92C27H32O16611.162310.9455.1192, 449.1369, 353.0851, 179.0346, 161.025, 155.0341, 135.044Unknown5113.24C25H28O13535.145880.3517.1362, 475.1292, 373.1098, 323.0774, 313.5499, 221.058, 161.0243, 149.0595, 132.0192Ibotalactone A5213.47C30H34O17665.173692665.177, 503.1346, 341.0861, 335.0771, 329.0882, 173.0455, 167.0341, 155.0341, 152.0114Scrocaffeside A5313.69C27H30O16609.146390.5447.1175, 161.0245, 152.0103Quercetin-3-O-neohesperidin14.28C26H30O15581.151390.3455.1204, 419.1439, 353.0851, 308.917, 179.0357, 161.0218, 135.0437Unknown5514.65C26H34O11HCOOH567.208850.9359.1468, 341.1379, 329.1399, 314.112, 311.0917, 269.0806, 165.0581Urolignoside5616.92C25H24O13531.114750.6369.0826, 351.0785, 207.0505, 189.0398, 179.0348, 135.0456, 109.03081-Carboxy-6-deoxy-3,5-bis[3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-2-propenoate]-D-allo-inositol5717.65C34H46O17HCOOH771.274093.1725.273, 640.2023, 563.2159, 545.2014, 401.1608, 383.152, 371.1494, 353.1013, 217.08654-[4-(4-Hydroxy-3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)tetrahydro-1H,3H-furo [3,4-c]furan-1-yl]-2,6-dimethoxyphenyl 2-O-(6-deoxy-mannopyranosyl)-glucopyranoside5817.88C27H38O12HCOOH599.235111553.1007, 425.148, 391.1776, 181.0854Ssioriside5918.44C25H24O12∗515.11970.4353.0885, 335.0776, 191.056, 179.035, 173.0456, 161.0239, 135.04521,4-Dicaffeoylquinic acid6018.72C20H26O10425.14504−0.7381.1513, 245.0808, 179.0341, 134.0372, 59.0159Rotundarpenoside B6119.67C25H24O12∗515.119830.6353.0885, 191.0565, 179.0351, 135.04533,4-Dicaffeoylquinic acid6220.11C28H34O15609.183131541.1298, 455.1178, 395.0961, 353.0861, 293.0879, 221.0458, 179.0344, 161.0236, 135.0449, 89.0257Unknown6321.4C28H36O13HCOOH625.214781.6579.2117, 417.1561, 402.1337, 181.0504, 166.0271Eleutheroside E6422.18C27H34O13HCOOH611.198570.7565.1965, 499.0526, 403.136, 385.1289, 355.1209, 325.107, 218.0548, 179.0552, 143.0334, 89.0251, 59.0156Arbortristoside E6522.58C24H34O13529.19242−0.5367.1591, 235.1182, 179.0344, 161.0233, 135.0456, 101.02556-O-(4-{[3-(3,4-Dihydroxyphenyl)-2-propenoyloxy]methyl}-3,4-dihydroxytetrahydro-2-furanyl)-glucopyranoside-2-butanyl6623.06C28H40O13HCOOH629.246051.5583.2422, 421.1869, 360.9641, 211.0975, 196.07584-Hydroxy-2,3-bis[(4-hydroxy-3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)methyl]butyl glucopyranoside6723.53C29H36O16639.19431.9455.1204, 353.0879, 179.0354, 161.0245, 135.455Kelampayoside B6823.54C25H24O12∗515.119930.8353.0873, 335.0766, 299.0556, 203.0345, 191.0562, 179.0348, 173.0455, 137.0244, 135.04563,5-Dicaffeoylquinic acid6925.26C27H32O13563.177520.9401.1426, 269.1004, 179.0344, 161.0239, 134.037Dracunculifoside H7025.61C29H36O15623.19870.9591.17744, 554.8923, 486.9106, 455.1222, 429.1444, 353.087, 251.0525, 214.9555, 179.034, 161.0242, 146.967, 135.0445Isoacteoside7125.84C25H24O11499.124750.3337.0933, 276.9563, 173.045, 163.041, 137.0231, 199.04993,5-Bis[[3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-2-propen-1-yl]oxy]-1-hydroxy-cyclohexanecarboxylic acid7227.53C42H66O16∗825.431013.9663.3778, 601.3766, 487.3455, 439.3225, 175.0265, 113.0236Phytolaccasaponin E7327.55C42H66O16∗825.431033.9663.3778, 601.3766, 487.3455, 439.3225, 175.0265, 113.0236Esculentoside A7427.74C42H68O15HCOOH857.457043.5811.4577, 649.3995, 631.3933, 469.3343, 207.05163-[(4-O-Glucopyranosyl-glucopyranosyl)oxy]-2,23-dihydroxy-olean-12-en-28-oic acid7528.07C34H30O15677.152672.2515.1213, 497.1112, 353.0882, 335.0773, 191.0559, 179.0344, 173.0453, 135.04541,4,5-Tricaffeoylquinic acid7628.09C29H32O13587.177661.1425.146, 179.0342, 161.0242, 135.0453-[[3-(3,4-Dihydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-2-propen-1-yl]oxy]-1,4-dihydroxy-5-[[3-(4-hydroxy-3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-2-propen-1-yl]oxy]-ethyl ester-cyclohexanecarboxylic acid7728.59C48H76O20971.489193.6809.4333, 747.4459, 629.3703, 539.3734, 157.0191Udosaponin F7828.75C22H28O12483.150950.3465.144, 451.1253, 363.1091, 277.1101, 263.0932, 193.0507, 179.0348, 135.0454[3,4,5-Trihydroxy-6-[2-(3-hydroxy-5-oxooxolan-3-yl)propoxy]oxan-2-yl]methyl -3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)prop-2-enoate7929.1C41H66O14HCOOH827.446553.7781.4463, 619.39, 601.38, 487.3397, 351.0717, 207.0515, 131.0369Ilexsaponin C8029.19C34H30O14661.156750.7515.1234, 353.093, 337.091, 173.0434, 163.00397Unknown8129.2C31H38O14633.219350.7615.2069, 424.1381, 369.0985, 263.0937, 209.0824, 194.0583, 179.0357, 135.0495, 133.02943-(4-Hydroxyphenyl)-2-propen-1-yl 3-O-(6-deoxy-mannopyranosyl)-4-[3-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-2-propenoate] glucopyranoside8229.22C47H76O17911.503082.3765.4522, 747.4475, 603.3939, 350.9276Ilexsaponin B28329.23C37H46O17761.267872.2625.2533, 599.2171, 581.2103, 445.1529, 387.1617, 372.121, 179.0341, 112.98541,2,3,4-Tetrahydro-7-hydroxy-3-[[(4-hydroxy-3,5-dimethoxybenzoyl) oxy]methyl]-1-(4-hydroxy-3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-6,8-dimethoxy-2-naphthalenyl]methyl glucopyranoside8429.48C42H66O15809.435563.3689.3939, 647.3839, 629.3739, 585.3826, 567.3683, 471.347, 175.025, 75.0119Bonushenricoside B8529.69C25H24O10483.129960.6321.0966, 173.0441, 137.0252, 93.0356Unknown8629.78C47H76O18HCOOH973.50544.1927.5054, 807.4619, 765.4496, 603.3942Ilexoside K8730.23C36H56O11HCOOH709.381932.1663.3782, 543.3328, 501.3219, 439.3187, 335.0754Ilexsaponin A8830.39C36H58O10HCOOH695.402141.4649.3992, 487.344, 469.3342, 207.0514Pedunculoside8930.39C30H48O5487.342950.1469.3331, 437.3069, 405.3170, 339.269, 277.2169, 71.0543Rotundic acid9030.65C41H66O13HCOOH811.451333.4765.44779, 603.3928, 585.3801, 541.3902, 207.0502Kudinoside H9131.43C42H66O14793.44113.9673.4008, 631.3876, 613.3787, 587.3979, 569.3857, 455.3534, 175.0245, 75.0111Chikusetsusaponin iva9231.86C35H56O9HCOOH665.391972619.3877, 601.379, 559.361, 469.3325, 180.974, 131.0349, 59.0168Brevicuspisaponin 19331.92C49H78O19HCOOH1015.516024969.5142, 807.4599, 789.4666, 609.3853, 537.3612, 455.3511, 179.0584Chikusetsusaponin V methyl ester9432.59C36H58O9HCOOH679.408072.6633.4034, 471.3487, 453.3376, 409.3476, 207.0508, 119.039328-Glucoside hederagenin9532.67C16H22O5293.13919−0.9261.1131, 246.0893, 218.0946, 195.0661, 177.0194, 161.0243, 159.045, 117.03513-Carboxy-4-methoxy-(1-methylethyl)-1-ethyl ester benzenepropanoic acid9633.02C30H46O6501.322430.5483.3175, 455.3162, 439.3231Ilexgenin A9733.77C35H56O8603.390961.2585.3822, 541.3914, 453.3359, 399.9042, 331.9169, 263.9334, 131.03412,3-Dihydroxy-arabinopyranosyl ester-12-en-28-oic acid9834.77C36H56O9631.386181.6613.3777, 555.3741, 509.3671, 455.3555, 157.0133, 113.0249, 111.00873,23-Dihydroxy-glucopyranosyl ester-ursa-12-18-dien-28-oic acid9936.68C39H54O6617.385260.8615.4365, 453.3386, 163.0393, 119.0492Jacoumaric acid10037.18C22H30O3341.21186−1323.2004, 179.1074, 177.0914, 149.0978, 134.07324,4’-[Oxybis(methylene)]bis-2,3,5,6-tetramethyl-phenol10138.27C21H28O2311.201850.6149.0973, 133.06552,6-Diethyl-Phenol-4,4’-methylenebis10238.63C23H30O3353.21197−0.7190.1004, 177.0915, 163.11232,8-Bis(phenylmethoxy)-5-Octen-3-ol-7-methyl10340.028C30H48O3∗455.35304−0.1409.2484Ursolic acid10440.33C30H48O3∗455.3527−0.8455.3535Oleanolic acid10540.65C23H32O2339.23276−0.6163.1127, 147.0807, 107.05042-tert-Butyl-6-(2-hydroxy-3-tert-butyl-5-methyl-benzyl)-4-methyl-phenol∗Isomers.


### 3.2. Cleavage Rules of Pentacyclic Triterpenes and Their Saponins

A previous study reported that IRC contains several triterpenoid saponins, mainly including the oleanane and ursolane types [20,21]. Without ring-opening, these compounds have diagnostic ions m/z 394, m/z 410, and m/z 426. Confirmation is obtained between types I and IV. Compound classification, diagnostic ions, and cleavage are shown in Figure 3. In this study, 22 triterpenes and their saponins were preliminarily identified [22–24]. Conclusively, five representative standards including ilexsaponin A, pedunculoside, rotundic acid, kudinoside H, and ilexgenin A were compared and confirmed.Figure 3
Types of triterpenes and their cracking regularity in ICR.These 22 compounds were derived from the two elementary structures of oleanolate and ursolane and classified into the following four major groups: oleanolate (m/z 438.4226), 2-hydroxy oleanolate (m/z 454.4175), ursolane (m/z 452.4382), and 19-hydroxy ursolane (m/z 440.4018). After analyzing the characteristic ions in IRC based on MS, we found that m/z 175.0265, 207.0516, 409.3476, 439.3225, 455.3511, 469.3343, 585.3826, 603.3939, and 765.4496 are the diagnostic fragments of triterpenoid saponins in IRC. The glycosidic bonds were easily broken and often produced desaccharified fragment peaks, including glucose (Glc) m/z 162.0528 or 179.0556, rhamnose (Rha) m/z 146.0579 or 163.0606, and xylose (Xyl) m/z 132.0423 or 149.0450. Moreover, dehydration and decarboxylation reactions were observed, which mainly occurred at the C-3, C-23, C-28, C-19, and C-30 positions.By comparing with the control, M87 (ilexsaponin A) obtained through [M-HCOOH-Glc-H2O-CO2]− produced m/z 663.3797, 501.2331, 483.3147, and 439.3311 (Figure 4(a)). M88 (pedunculoside) obtained through [M-HCOOH-Glc-H2O-CH3OH]− produced m/z 649.4009, 487.3458, 469.3340, and 437.3066 (Figure 4(b)). M89 (rotundic acid) obtained through [M-H-H2O-CH3OH-CH3OH]− produced m/z 487.3439, 469.3331, 437.3069, and 405.3170 (Figure 4(c)). M90 (kudinoside H) obtained through [M-H-Glc-(Xyl)-H2O-COOH]- produced m/z 765.4479, 603.3928, 585.3801, 541.3902, 471.3500, and 453.3384 (Figure 4(d)). M96 (ilexgenin A) obtained through [M-H-H2O-HCOOH-O]− produced m/z 501.3249, 483.3175, and 439.3231 (Figure 4(e)). All fragments in the compound matched the corresponding reference materials exactly. Therefore, we could infer other compounds of the same type.Figure 4
MS/MS of IRC and standard compounds. (a) Ilexsaponin A, (b) pedunculoside, (c) rotundic acid, (d) kudinoside H, and (e) ilexgenin A (A: MS/MS of IRC; B: MS/MS of standard compounds; C: mass spectrum fracture mode).
(a)(b)(c)(d)(e)


### 3.3. Cleavage Rules of Chlorogenic Acids

Chlorogenic acids are derived from quinic acid (QA) and were distinguished according to the number and types of substituents [25]. The diagnostic ions at m/z 191.0556 and 173.045 corresponded to [QA-H]− and [QA-H-H2O]−. However, it was not possible to ascertain the precise substitution sites using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. Likewise, we confirmed our finding by comparing them with the literature or standard compounds. A total of 15 chlorogenic acids were identified in this study, and their structures are presented in Figure 5. Eleven types were identified based on their substituents, as well as their positions and the number. Cracking is mainly achieved by removing fragments such as QA, SA, CA, and p-CA. QA has m/z 192.0634, and the fragment [QA-H]− has m/z 191.0561. Similarly, [SA-H] − corresponding to m/z 223.0612, [CA-H]− corresponding to m/z 179.0350, and [p-CA-H]− corresponding to m/z 165.0557 were diagnostic ions.Figure 5
Chlorogenic acids in IRC. Quinic acid as the parent nucleus was formed mainly by introducing QA, SA, CA, andp-CA groups.To provide a basis for the identification of chlorogenic acids, six standard chlorogenic acids derivatives were used in this study, among which three were monosubstituted and three were disubstituted. Chlorogenic acid, cryptochlorogenic acid, and neochlorogenic acid are isomers, and it was challenging to distinguish even by using MS. A similar predicament was observed in the case of 1,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid, 3,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid, and 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid. Nonetheless, it was likely to differentiate them by comparing their peak times with the reference standards (Figure6).Figure 6
(a) Chlorogenic acid (1), neochlorogenic acid (2), and cryptochlorogenic acid (3). (b) 1,4-Dicaffeoylquinic acid (1), 3,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid (2), and 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid (3) (A: MS/MS of IRC; B: MS/MS of standard compounds; C: UV of IRC; D: UV of standard compounds; E: mass spectrum fracture mode).
(a)(b)


### 3.4. Cleavage Rules of Glycosides

A total of 33 phenylpropanes with their glycosides and 12 glycosides were confirmed in this study. All glycosides were linked mainly by Glc, Rha, Xyl, or arabinose (Arab). The diagnostic ions atm/z 179.0556 and 162.0528 corresponded to Glc. It is worth noting that m/z 179.0556 was different from 179.0344 of the dicaffeoyl group [26]. Moreover, the diagnostic ions at m/z 163.0606 and 146.0579 were in accordance with Rha and m/z 149.0450 and 132.0423 corresponded with Xyl or Arab. These monosaccharides could link with different sugar chains including Ara‐Xyl, Ara‐Rha, Ara‐Rha‐Glc, and Glc‐Glc. Among them, syringin (M25), belonging to phenylpropanoids, is listed as a marker in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2020 edition. The MS/MS of syringin was found to correspond perfectly with the reference standard. This finding provides a basis for the identification and speculation of these compounds. The representative glycoside structures of compounds are shown in Figure 7.Figure 7
Representative glycoside structures. Glycosides are formed when a class of nonsugar compounds is combined with a sugar.


### 3.5. Cleavage Rules of Iridoid

During the determination of iridoids using MS, although extensive data have been reported, plentiful basic parent nuclei of iridoids, such as aromatic rings and aromatic heterocycles lacking regular fracture mode, were detected. Thus, iridoids could crack more chemical bonds upon bombardment with electrons. Considering the various chemical components present in IRC, the collision energy that was used in this study failed to lead to ring-opening; however, some fracture modes such as sugar dropping and dehydration were identified [27]. We found that M3, M4, and M64 in IRC were iridoid components of terpenoids.


### 3.6. Cleavage Rules of Flavonoids

For brass compounds, the core skeletons of the A and B rings were preserved, and the sum of the mass-charge ratios of fragment A and corresponding fragment B was found to be equal to the mass-charge ratios of molecular ions. Thus, it was of great significance for identification in this study. For instance, M53 follows this pattern in IRC. After dropping the glycosyl moiety, the ring opened to form fragments A and B.


### 3.7. Cleavage Rules of Lignans

Lignans are composed of two C6-C3 units, most of which have a circular structure. Therefore, MS data usually show a high abundance of molecular ion peaks. The structure of the benzene ring and hydrocarbyl ring in lignans is helpful in obtaining a series of molecular fragment peak information in the mass spectrum [28]. In IRC, M70, M52, and M51 were cleaved by desaccharification and the removal of dicaffeoyl group. Besides, M66 and M58 corresponded to dibenzylbutane lignan. M83 corresponded to arylnaphthalene lignan, and M55 to dibenzylbutyrolactone lignan. M49, M63, and M57 corresponded to furofurans.


## 3.1. Optimization of LC-MS/MS Conditions

IRC is a complex system containing over a hundred compounds. To obtain high-quality MS peaks, an appropriate extraction method, mobile phase, and elution rate must be selected to improve the reproducibility, selectivity, and peak shape. To obtain more fragment ions for IRC identification, the positive and negative ions were compared. The sensitivity of most substances in the negative ion mode is higher than that in the positive ion mode. Furthermore, between ultrasonic extraction and thermal reflux extraction, the former was obviously superior to the latter for IRC, as reflux extraction might destroy the thermally unstable compounds. After adopting ultrasonic extraction at length, the chemical composition of IRC was analyzed in the negative ion mode. The chemical components in IRC were analyzed using a two-part strategy. As for the mobile phase, we studied the suitability of acetonitrile, methanol, pure water, and 0.1% formic acid in water and finally used acetonitrile and 0.1% formic acid in water as the mobile phases at a flow rate of 0.3 mL/min.First, we determined the precise molecular weight of the compounds using high-resolution MS and deduced their molecular formula using MS. Next, we analyzed and classified compounds based on neutral loss, diagnostic ions, and characteristic fragments. Lastly, the typical compounds in each category were selected and compared with the standard compounds (Figure1). The final results showed that the predicted components were completely consistent with the mass spectrum of the standard components, suggesting that our method was feasible and reliable for the prediction of chemical components in IRC.Figure 1
Schematic diagram of the integrative strategy.The retention time and mass spectrum of each chemical component in IRC were analyzed. Through consulting and referring to the relevant literature and database search, the compounds were confirmed by comparing the base peak diagram with the reference material. Gratifyingly, 105 compounds in IRC were preliminarily identified, which included 22 triterpenoid saponins, 15 chlorogenic acids, 33 phenylpropanoids and phenylpropanosides, 3 iridoids, 1 flavonoid, 10 lignans, 12 glycosides, and 9 other compounds. The total ion chromatogram (TIC) for the 105 identified compounds is shown in Figure2(a) and was sequenced using peak time. The 15 reference compounds (M10: 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid; M12: chlorogenic acid; M14: 3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde; M24: neochlorogenic acid; M25: syringin; M27: cryptochlorogenic acid; M28: caffeic acid; M59: 1,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid; M61: 3,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid; M68: 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid; M87: ilexsaponin A; M88: pedunculoside; M89: rotundic acid; M90: kudinoside H; M96: ilexgenin A) matched perfectly with the mass spectrum fragments and retention time of the identified components. Our findings indicated the accuracy and reliability of our method. All compounds are listed in Table 1.Figure 2
TIC of (a) Ilicis Rotundae Cortex (IRC) and (b) the 15 mixed standard compounds in the negative ion mode.
(a)(b)Table 1
Identification of the chemical composition of IRC.
No.Retention (min)Formula[M-H]− (m/z)Error (ppm)Fragment ions (m/z)Identify10.94C18H32O16HCOOH549.167971.3503.1644, 341.1107, 221.066, 207.0509, 179.0558Trisaccharide20.96C12H22O11HCOOH387.114750.9341.1089, 179.0558, 161.0449, 131.0354, 119.0356, 89.0258, 71.0164, 59.0175Sucrose31.4C17H26O11HCOOH451.145960.5405.1425, 314.932, 275.2195, 243.0867, 195.0657, 180.0423, 137.023Galioside41.7C16H24O10HCOOH421.13484−0.7375.1285, 357.1186, 352.9389, 195.0654, 179.0551, 162.0321, 145.0297, 119.0359, 101.0236, 89.0248, 71.014, 59.0179Tecomosid52.39C16H22O10373.11371−0.8252.0673, 236.917, 211.0617, 151.0396, 149.0607, 136.0155, 134.0372, 59.01693,4-Dihydroxybenzenepropanoate methoxy glucopyranosyloxy62.83C16H28O11HCOOH441.16129−0.2395.156, 293.0881, 263.1123, 233.0659, 161.0452, 101.02571-(3-Methylbutanoyl)-6-apiosylglucose73.56C11H16O8275.07718−0.2231.0869, 187.0626, 159.0646, 113.0597, 97.0681, 95.05, 83.0498, 58.01051,3-Bis (3-carboxypropyl) propanedioate83.57C10H16O6231.08728−0.6159.0673, 146.9645, 113.0607, 95.0511, 75.0104, 58.0072Acetoxy-methylmalonate diethyl93.76C14H18O9329.08751−0.9167.0346, 152.0113, 123.0452, 108.0221Vanillic acid glucoside104.01C7H6O4153.019994.3109.0296, 108.0246, 91.0208, 65.00843,4-Dihydroxybenzoic acid114.66C15H20O10359.09803−0.9312.9175, 197.0446, 182.0208, 166.9982, 153.0545, 138.0322, 123.008, 95.01264-Glucopyranosyloxy-3,5-dimethoxybenzoic acid124.81C16H18O9∗353.08769−0.3191.0559, 179.0348, 161.0237, 135.0451Chlorogenic acid135.2C17H24O11403.12416−1.1267.0449, 223.0608, 208.037, 193.0134, 165.0558, 153.0558, 138.0305, 137.0235, 119.0345, 113.0262, 95.0136, 85.0347Methyloleoside145.57C7H6O3137.02515119.0167, 108.0222, 92.0271, 81.0368, 65.0131, 53.0493,4-Dihydroxybenzaldehyde155.59C11H14O6241.07169−0.3226.0479, 211.0605, 193.0501, 178.0268, 163.0032, 153.0184, 135.0087, 123.0089, 107.0132, 95.0150, 69.03791-Benzyl-3-phenoxypiperidine165.86C16H18O10369.08245−0.7207.0514, 179.0345, 135.0449, 129.0201, 109.03, 101.025, 99.0112, 85.03215-[3-(3,4-Dihydroxy-phenyl)-acryloyloxy]-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroxy-cyclohexanecarboxylic acid175.98C23H34O14HCOOH579.193080533.1893, 519.1802, 371.135, 341.1084, 323.098, 209.082, 179.00559, 161.0468, 119.0344, 89.0255Syringinoside186.08C17H22O10385.11397−0.1353.08872, 316.9467, 248.9595, 191.0559, 180.8741, 161.0215, 112.9858, 59.0173Sinapoyl glucoside196.11C14H18O8313.09274−0.5244.927, 179.0347, 161.0241, 151.0602, 135.0448, 119.0329, 89.0242, 73.0351, 59.0176Unknown206.13C17H26O10389.14491−1.1227.0914, 209.0806, 179.0343, 152.048, 137.0233, 101.0259, 71.0152Secologanol216.19C21H32O10443.19214−0.3375.0721, 283.0836, 237.1483, 184.26, 149.0443, 119.0348, 89.0262, 59.0151Penstemide226.47C19H26O12445.13487−0.6376.9048, 2833.1021, 179.0347, 161.0241, 135.04482,3,4-Trihydroxybutyl, 6-[3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-2-propenoate] glucopyranoside236.54C15H18O9341.08762−0.5323.0781, 281.0665, 251.0559, 221.0451, 179.0345, 161.0242, 135.04533-Glucoside caffeic acid246.71C16H18O9∗353.08773−0.2191.0559, 179.035, 161.0243, 127.0404, 85.0314Neochlorogenic acid256.89C17H24O9HCOOH417.14021−0.1371.1351, 209.0818, 207.0507, 194.0577, 176.048Syringin266.89C11H14O4209.082050.6194.0573, 191.0708, 179.0343, 176.0472, 161.0236, 151.0395, 133.0302, 121.0296, 105.0345, 77.04083,5-Dimethoxyhydrocinnamic acid277.18C16H18O9∗353.08764−0.5191.0558, 179.0349, 173.0349, 135.0453, 111.0453, 93.0354Cryptochlorogenic acid287.54C9H8O4179.03483−0.8135.0447, 117.0338, 107.0491, 89.0396, 65.0087Caffeic acid297.78C19H30O10HCOOH463.18187−0.5417.1777, 181.0874, 166.0632, 161.0478, 119.03343-Hydroxy-2-[4-(3-hydroxypropyl)-2-methoxyphenoxy] propyl glucopyranoside307.93C15H20O8327.108630.3190.9281, 147.0453, 103.0552, 89.02814-(3-Hydroxypropyl)phenyl glucopyranosiduronic acid318.12C18H26O10HCOOH447.15065−0.3401.1457, 310.9294, 293.0864, 269.1029, 174.9566, 161.0466, 129.0171, 101.0251, 71.0153Icariside F2328.14C20H28O11443.15578−0.2425.1457, 375.0666, 245.0768, 179.0337, 137.02314-{[3-(3,4-Dihydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-2-propen-1-yl]oxy}-2-hydroxy-3-methylbutyl glucopyranoside338.2C21H28O13487.146010.6418.9183, 350.9283, 307.0846, 282.9368, 179.0336, 161.0239, 135.04543-O-(6-Deoxy-mannopyranosyl)-4-O-[3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-2-propenoyl]-glucose348.28C20H28O12459.15077−0.1297.1175, 179.0345, 161.0241, 135.04492,3-Dihydroxy-3-methyl-butyl-caffeoyl glucopyranoside358.46C21H32O11HCOOH567.208850.9359.1468, 341.1379, 329.1399, 314.112, 269.0806Patrinioside H368.56C28H38O14HCOOH643.225551.8597.2214, 567.211, 435.1661, 405.1555, 375.1444, 357.1339, 342.1088, 297.0374, 223.0962, 181.0498, 166.0262Ligraminol B378.92C16H18O8337.09256−1191.0552, 163.0388, 119.0509, 111.05, 93.0351, 69.03991,3,5-Trihydroxy-4-[[3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-2-propen-1-yl]oxy]cyclohexanecarboxylic acid389.19C17H22O9HCOOH415.12445−0.3369.1184, 207.066, 192.0424, 177.019, 149.0241, 121.0303Sinapaldehyde glucoside399.19C11H12O4207.06609−0.9192.0426, 177.0192, 149.0239, 134.0367, 121.0295, 105.0367, 93.0349, 77.0413Sinapaldehyde409.33C20H32O11HCOOH493.192680447.1872, 235.0849, 211.0967, 196.0755, 161.04523-Hydroxy-2-[4-(3-hydroxypropyl)-2, 6-dimethoxyphenoxy]propyl glucopyranoside4110.27C17H20O9367.1032−0.7193.0499, 191.0557, 173.0453, 155.0352, 134.0379, 111.0454, 93.03574-O-E-Caffeoylquinic acid methyl ester4210.44C9H10O3165.055971.5147.0448, 119.0489, 103.0572, 78.9605, 73.0048p-Coumaric acid4310.93C26H32O14567.172450.9549.1645, 341.0875, 281.0656, 251.0557, 221.0447, 193.0499, 179.034, 161.0243, 133.0299Caudatoside F4411.1C24H40O12HCOOH565.250640.8519.2452, 429.0967, 387.2019, 293.0855, 225.1479, 191.0534, 149.0434, 101.02364-[3-[(6-O-Arabinofuranosyl-glucopyranosyl)oxy]butyl]-4-hydroxy-3,5,5-trimethyl-2-cyclohexen-1-one4511.15C18H24O10399.12934−0.8237.0699, 179.356, 161.0248, 135.04511-Hydroxy-2-propanyl 6-O-[3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-2-propenoyl]-glucopyranoside4611.59C19H26O11429.14004−0.5293.0827, 233.0666, 157.0091, 135.0453, 89.0263Neohancoside C4712.07C25H34O14557.188121179.0353, 161.0245, 135.0457Urceolatoside A4812.2C27H32O14579.172491455.1203, 395.1017, 353.0885, 311.0802, 221.0448, 179.0346, 161.0238, 135.0454, 89.0232Unknown4912.92C34H46O18HCOOH787.269723.9787.2735, 741.2677, 579.2113, 417.1557, 402.1335, 181.0497Eleutheroside5012.92C27H32O16611.162310.9455.1192, 449.1369, 353.0851, 179.0346, 161.025, 155.0341, 135.044Unknown5113.24C25H28O13535.145880.3517.1362, 475.1292, 373.1098, 323.0774, 313.5499, 221.058, 161.0243, 149.0595, 132.0192Ibotalactone A5213.47C30H34O17665.173692665.177, 503.1346, 341.0861, 335.0771, 329.0882, 173.0455, 167.0341, 155.0341, 152.0114Scrocaffeside A5313.69C27H30O16609.146390.5447.1175, 161.0245, 152.0103Quercetin-3-O-neohesperidin14.28C26H30O15581.151390.3455.1204, 419.1439, 353.0851, 308.917, 179.0357, 161.0218, 135.0437Unknown5514.65C26H34O11HCOOH567.208850.9359.1468, 341.1379, 329.1399, 314.112, 311.0917, 269.0806, 165.0581Urolignoside5616.92C25H24O13531.114750.6369.0826, 351.0785, 207.0505, 189.0398, 179.0348, 135.0456, 109.03081-Carboxy-6-deoxy-3,5-bis[3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-2-propenoate]-D-allo-inositol5717.65C34H46O17HCOOH771.274093.1725.273, 640.2023, 563.2159, 545.2014, 401.1608, 383.152, 371.1494, 353.1013, 217.08654-[4-(4-Hydroxy-3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)tetrahydro-1H,3H-furo [3,4-c]furan-1-yl]-2,6-dimethoxyphenyl 2-O-(6-deoxy-mannopyranosyl)-glucopyranoside5817.88C27H38O12HCOOH599.235111553.1007, 425.148, 391.1776, 181.0854Ssioriside5918.44C25H24O12∗515.11970.4353.0885, 335.0776, 191.056, 179.035, 173.0456, 161.0239, 135.04521,4-Dicaffeoylquinic acid6018.72C20H26O10425.14504−0.7381.1513, 245.0808, 179.0341, 134.0372, 59.0159Rotundarpenoside B6119.67C25H24O12∗515.119830.6353.0885, 191.0565, 179.0351, 135.04533,4-Dicaffeoylquinic acid6220.11C28H34O15609.183131541.1298, 455.1178, 395.0961, 353.0861, 293.0879, 221.0458, 179.0344, 161.0236, 135.0449, 89.0257Unknown6321.4C28H36O13HCOOH625.214781.6579.2117, 417.1561, 402.1337, 181.0504, 166.0271Eleutheroside E6422.18C27H34O13HCOOH611.198570.7565.1965, 499.0526, 403.136, 385.1289, 355.1209, 325.107, 218.0548, 179.0552, 143.0334, 89.0251, 59.0156Arbortristoside E6522.58C24H34O13529.19242−0.5367.1591, 235.1182, 179.0344, 161.0233, 135.0456, 101.02556-O-(4-{[3-(3,4-Dihydroxyphenyl)-2-propenoyloxy]methyl}-3,4-dihydroxytetrahydro-2-furanyl)-glucopyranoside-2-butanyl6623.06C28H40O13HCOOH629.246051.5583.2422, 421.1869, 360.9641, 211.0975, 196.07584-Hydroxy-2,3-bis[(4-hydroxy-3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)methyl]butyl glucopyranoside6723.53C29H36O16639.19431.9455.1204, 353.0879, 179.0354, 161.0245, 135.455Kelampayoside B6823.54C25H24O12∗515.119930.8353.0873, 335.0766, 299.0556, 203.0345, 191.0562, 179.0348, 173.0455, 137.0244, 135.04563,5-Dicaffeoylquinic acid6925.26C27H32O13563.177520.9401.1426, 269.1004, 179.0344, 161.0239, 134.037Dracunculifoside H7025.61C29H36O15623.19870.9591.17744, 554.8923, 486.9106, 455.1222, 429.1444, 353.087, 251.0525, 214.9555, 179.034, 161.0242, 146.967, 135.0445Isoacteoside7125.84C25H24O11499.124750.3337.0933, 276.9563, 173.045, 163.041, 137.0231, 199.04993,5-Bis[[3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-2-propen-1-yl]oxy]-1-hydroxy-cyclohexanecarboxylic acid7227.53C42H66O16∗825.431013.9663.3778, 601.3766, 487.3455, 439.3225, 175.0265, 113.0236Phytolaccasaponin E7327.55C42H66O16∗825.431033.9663.3778, 601.3766, 487.3455, 439.3225, 175.0265, 113.0236Esculentoside A7427.74C42H68O15HCOOH857.457043.5811.4577, 649.3995, 631.3933, 469.3343, 207.05163-[(4-O-Glucopyranosyl-glucopyranosyl)oxy]-2,23-dihydroxy-olean-12-en-28-oic acid7528.07C34H30O15677.152672.2515.1213, 497.1112, 353.0882, 335.0773, 191.0559, 179.0344, 173.0453, 135.04541,4,5-Tricaffeoylquinic acid7628.09C29H32O13587.177661.1425.146, 179.0342, 161.0242, 135.0453-[[3-(3,4-Dihydroxyphenyl)-1-oxo-2-propen-1-yl]oxy]-1,4-dihydroxy-5-[[3-(4-hydroxy-3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-1-oxo-2-propen-1-yl]oxy]-ethyl ester-cyclohexanecarboxylic acid7728.59C48H76O20971.489193.6809.4333, 747.4459, 629.3703, 539.3734, 157.0191Udosaponin F7828.75C22H28O12483.150950.3465.144, 451.1253, 363.1091, 277.1101, 263.0932, 193.0507, 179.0348, 135.0454[3,4,5-Trihydroxy-6-[2-(3-hydroxy-5-oxooxolan-3-yl)propoxy]oxan-2-yl]methyl -3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)prop-2-enoate7929.1C41H66O14HCOOH827.446553.7781.4463, 619.39, 601.38, 487.3397, 351.0717, 207.0515, 131.0369Ilexsaponin C8029.19C34H30O14661.156750.7515.1234, 353.093, 337.091, 173.0434, 163.00397Unknown8129.2C31H38O14633.219350.7615.2069, 424.1381, 369.0985, 263.0937, 209.0824, 194.0583, 179.0357, 135.0495, 133.02943-(4-Hydroxyphenyl)-2-propen-1-yl 3-O-(6-deoxy-mannopyranosyl)-4-[3-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-2-propenoate] glucopyranoside8229.22C47H76O17911.503082.3765.4522, 747.4475, 603.3939, 350.9276Ilexsaponin B28329.23C37H46O17761.267872.2625.2533, 599.2171, 581.2103, 445.1529, 387.1617, 372.121, 179.0341, 112.98541,2,3,4-Tetrahydro-7-hydroxy-3-[[(4-hydroxy-3,5-dimethoxybenzoyl) oxy]methyl]-1-(4-hydroxy-3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-6,8-dimethoxy-2-naphthalenyl]methyl glucopyranoside8429.48C42H66O15809.435563.3689.3939, 647.3839, 629.3739, 585.3826, 567.3683, 471.347, 175.025, 75.0119Bonushenricoside B8529.69C25H24O10483.129960.6321.0966, 173.0441, 137.0252, 93.0356Unknown8629.78C47H76O18HCOOH973.50544.1927.5054, 807.4619, 765.4496, 603.3942Ilexoside K8730.23C36H56O11HCOOH709.381932.1663.3782, 543.3328, 501.3219, 439.3187, 335.0754Ilexsaponin A8830.39C36H58O10HCOOH695.402141.4649.3992, 487.344, 469.3342, 207.0514Pedunculoside8930.39C30H48O5487.342950.1469.3331, 437.3069, 405.3170, 339.269, 277.2169, 71.0543Rotundic acid9030.65C41H66O13HCOOH811.451333.4765.44779, 603.3928, 585.3801, 541.3902, 207.0502Kudinoside H9131.43C42H66O14793.44113.9673.4008, 631.3876, 613.3787, 587.3979, 569.3857, 455.3534, 175.0245, 75.0111Chikusetsusaponin iva9231.86C35H56O9HCOOH665.391972619.3877, 601.379, 559.361, 469.3325, 180.974, 131.0349, 59.0168Brevicuspisaponin 19331.92C49H78O19HCOOH1015.516024969.5142, 807.4599, 789.4666, 609.3853, 537.3612, 455.3511, 179.0584Chikusetsusaponin V methyl ester9432.59C36H58O9HCOOH679.408072.6633.4034, 471.3487, 453.3376, 409.3476, 207.0508, 119.039328-Glucoside hederagenin9532.67C16H22O5293.13919−0.9261.1131, 246.0893, 218.0946, 195.0661, 177.0194, 161.0243, 159.045, 117.03513-Carboxy-4-methoxy-(1-methylethyl)-1-ethyl ester benzenepropanoic acid9633.02C30H46O6501.322430.5483.3175, 455.3162, 439.3231Ilexgenin A9733.77C35H56O8603.390961.2585.3822, 541.3914, 453.3359, 399.9042, 331.9169, 263.9334, 131.03412,3-Dihydroxy-arabinopyranosyl ester-12-en-28-oic acid9834.77C36H56O9631.386181.6613.3777, 555.3741, 509.3671, 455.3555, 157.0133, 113.0249, 111.00873,23-Dihydroxy-glucopyranosyl ester-ursa-12-18-dien-28-oic acid9936.68C39H54O6617.385260.8615.4365, 453.3386, 163.0393, 119.0492Jacoumaric acid10037.18C22H30O3341.21186−1323.2004, 179.1074, 177.0914, 149.0978, 134.07324,4’-[Oxybis(methylene)]bis-2,3,5,6-tetramethyl-phenol10138.27C21H28O2311.201850.6149.0973, 133.06552,6-Diethyl-Phenol-4,4’-methylenebis10238.63C23H30O3353.21197−0.7190.1004, 177.0915, 163.11232,8-Bis(phenylmethoxy)-5-Octen-3-ol-7-methyl10340.028C30H48O3∗455.35304−0.1409.2484Ursolic acid10440.33C30H48O3∗455.3527−0.8455.3535Oleanolic acid10540.65C23H32O2339.23276−0.6163.1127, 147.0807, 107.05042-tert-Butyl-6-(2-hydroxy-3-tert-butyl-5-methyl-benzyl)-4-methyl-phenol∗Isomers.


## 3.2. Cleavage Rules of Pentacyclic Triterpenes and Their Saponins

A previous study reported that IRC contains several triterpenoid saponins, mainly including the oleanane and ursolane types [20,21]. Without ring-opening, these compounds have diagnostic ions m/z 394, m/z 410, and m/z 426. Confirmation is obtained between types I and IV. Compound classification, diagnostic ions, and cleavage are shown in Figure 3. In this study, 22 triterpenes and their saponins were preliminarily identified [22–24]. Conclusively, five representative standards including ilexsaponin A, pedunculoside, rotundic acid, kudinoside H, and ilexgenin A were compared and confirmed.Figure 3
Types of triterpenes and their cracking regularity in ICR.These 22 compounds were derived from the two elementary structures of oleanolate and ursolane and classified into the following four major groups: oleanolate (m/z 438.4226), 2-hydroxy oleanolate (m/z 454.4175), ursolane (m/z 452.4382), and 19-hydroxy ursolane (m/z 440.4018). After analyzing the characteristic ions in IRC based on MS, we found that m/z 175.0265, 207.0516, 409.3476, 439.3225, 455.3511, 469.3343, 585.3826, 603.3939, and 765.4496 are the diagnostic fragments of triterpenoid saponins in IRC. The glycosidic bonds were easily broken and often produced desaccharified fragment peaks, including glucose (Glc) m/z 162.0528 or 179.0556, rhamnose (Rha) m/z 146.0579 or 163.0606, and xylose (Xyl) m/z 132.0423 or 149.0450. Moreover, dehydration and decarboxylation reactions were observed, which mainly occurred at the C-3, C-23, C-28, C-19, and C-30 positions.By comparing with the control, M87 (ilexsaponin A) obtained through [M-HCOOH-Glc-H2O-CO2]− produced m/z 663.3797, 501.2331, 483.3147, and 439.3311 (Figure 4(a)). M88 (pedunculoside) obtained through [M-HCOOH-Glc-H2O-CH3OH]− produced m/z 649.4009, 487.3458, 469.3340, and 437.3066 (Figure 4(b)). M89 (rotundic acid) obtained through [M-H-H2O-CH3OH-CH3OH]− produced m/z 487.3439, 469.3331, 437.3069, and 405.3170 (Figure 4(c)). M90 (kudinoside H) obtained through [M-H-Glc-(Xyl)-H2O-COOH]- produced m/z 765.4479, 603.3928, 585.3801, 541.3902, 471.3500, and 453.3384 (Figure 4(d)). M96 (ilexgenin A) obtained through [M-H-H2O-HCOOH-O]− produced m/z 501.3249, 483.3175, and 439.3231 (Figure 4(e)). All fragments in the compound matched the corresponding reference materials exactly. Therefore, we could infer other compounds of the same type.Figure 4
MS/MS of IRC and standard compounds. (a) Ilexsaponin A, (b) pedunculoside, (c) rotundic acid, (d) kudinoside H, and (e) ilexgenin A (A: MS/MS of IRC; B: MS/MS of standard compounds; C: mass spectrum fracture mode).
(a)(b)(c)(d)(e)


## 3.3. Cleavage Rules of Chlorogenic Acids

Chlorogenic acids are derived from quinic acid (QA) and were distinguished according to the number and types of substituents [25]. The diagnostic ions at m/z 191.0556 and 173.045 corresponded to [QA-H]− and [QA-H-H2O]−. However, it was not possible to ascertain the precise substitution sites using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. Likewise, we confirmed our finding by comparing them with the literature or standard compounds. A total of 15 chlorogenic acids were identified in this study, and their structures are presented in Figure 5. Eleven types were identified based on their substituents, as well as their positions and the number. Cracking is mainly achieved by removing fragments such as QA, SA, CA, and p-CA. QA has m/z 192.0634, and the fragment [QA-H]− has m/z 191.0561. Similarly, [SA-H] − corresponding to m/z 223.0612, [CA-H]− corresponding to m/z 179.0350, and [p-CA-H]− corresponding to m/z 165.0557 were diagnostic ions.Figure 5
Chlorogenic acids in IRC. Quinic acid as the parent nucleus was formed mainly by introducing QA, SA, CA, andp-CA groups.To provide a basis for the identification of chlorogenic acids, six standard chlorogenic acids derivatives were used in this study, among which three were monosubstituted and three were disubstituted. Chlorogenic acid, cryptochlorogenic acid, and neochlorogenic acid are isomers, and it was challenging to distinguish even by using MS. A similar predicament was observed in the case of 1,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid, 3,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid, and 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid. Nonetheless, it was likely to differentiate them by comparing their peak times with the reference standards (Figure6).Figure 6
(a) Chlorogenic acid (1), neochlorogenic acid (2), and cryptochlorogenic acid (3). (b) 1,4-Dicaffeoylquinic acid (1), 3,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid (2), and 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid (3) (A: MS/MS of IRC; B: MS/MS of standard compounds; C: UV of IRC; D: UV of standard compounds; E: mass spectrum fracture mode).
(a)(b)


## 3.4. Cleavage Rules of Glycosides

A total of 33 phenylpropanes with their glycosides and 12 glycosides were confirmed in this study. All glycosides were linked mainly by Glc, Rha, Xyl, or arabinose (Arab). The diagnostic ions atm/z 179.0556 and 162.0528 corresponded to Glc. It is worth noting that m/z 179.0556 was different from 179.0344 of the dicaffeoyl group [26]. Moreover, the diagnostic ions at m/z 163.0606 and 146.0579 were in accordance with Rha and m/z 149.0450 and 132.0423 corresponded with Xyl or Arab. These monosaccharides could link with different sugar chains including Ara‐Xyl, Ara‐Rha, Ara‐Rha‐Glc, and Glc‐Glc. Among them, syringin (M25), belonging to phenylpropanoids, is listed as a marker in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2020 edition. The MS/MS of syringin was found to correspond perfectly with the reference standard. This finding provides a basis for the identification and speculation of these compounds. The representative glycoside structures of compounds are shown in Figure 7.Figure 7
Representative glycoside structures. Glycosides are formed when a class of nonsugar compounds is combined with a sugar.


## 3.5. Cleavage Rules of Iridoid

During the determination of iridoids using MS, although extensive data have been reported, plentiful basic parent nuclei of iridoids, such as aromatic rings and aromatic heterocycles lacking regular fracture mode, were detected. Thus, iridoids could crack more chemical bonds upon bombardment with electrons. Considering the various chemical components present in IRC, the collision energy that was used in this study failed to lead to ring-opening; however, some fracture modes such as sugar dropping and dehydration were identified [27]. We found that M3, M4, and M64 in IRC were iridoid components of terpenoids.


## 3.6. Cleavage Rules of Flavonoids

For brass compounds, the core skeletons of the A and B rings were preserved, and the sum of the mass-charge ratios of fragment A and corresponding fragment B was found to be equal to the mass-charge ratios of molecular ions. Thus, it was of great significance for identification in this study. For instance, M53 follows this pattern in IRC. After dropping the glycosyl moiety, the ring opened to form fragments A and B.


## 3.7. Cleavage Rules of Lignans

Lignans are composed of two C6-C3 units, most of which have a circular structure. Therefore, MS data usually show a high abundance of molecular ion peaks. The structure of the benzene ring and hydrocarbyl ring in lignans is helpful in obtaining a series of molecular fragment peak information in the mass spectrum [28]. In IRC, M70, M52, and M51 were cleaved by desaccharification and the removal of dicaffeoyl group. Besides, M66 and M58 corresponded to dibenzylbutane lignan. M83 corresponded to arylnaphthalene lignan, and M55 to dibenzylbutyrolactone lignan. M49, M63, and M57 corresponded to furofurans.


## 4. Conclusions

It is well known that traditional Chinese medicine has a complicated chemical composition, which poses a challenge during analysis. However, it is important to develop effective methods to identify and utilize the constituents of traditional Chinese medicine. In this study, we report a rapid yet effective UPLC-MS/MS method, which combined a two-step data mining to screen and identify target compounds. Accordingly, 105 components (22 triterpenoid saponins, 15 chlorogenic acids, 33 phenylpropanoids and phenylpropanosides, 3 iridoids, 1 flavonoid, 10 lignans, 12 glycosides, and 9 other compounds) from IRC were rapidly identified. In combination with neutral loss, diagnostic ion, and characteristic ion filtration, the composition of IRC was analyzed on the basis of MS for the first time. Our findings show that UPLC-MS/MS could be an important means for the identification and discovery of pharmaceutical components in complex medicinal preparations. Our method is reasonable, effective, and feasible and can be used for the analysis of complex pharmaceutical components. Moreover, our findings can provide a theoretical basis for further studies on active substances and the quality control of IRC.



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*Source: 9570776-2021-09-30.xml*