Work

Integrating LC-MS based molecular networks and comparative metabolomics for variety identification and origin tracing of Zanthoxylum nitidum (Roxb.) DC

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Both varietal attributes and geographical indications are crucial for the quality and medicinal efficacy of Zanthoxylum nitidum (Roxb.) DC, therefore, its variety identification and origin tracing are of considerable importance. In this study, an integrating strategy, UHPLC-Q/TOF-MS based metabolomics coupled with molecular network strategy, was proposed to firstly differentiate Z. nitidum from two counterfeits, and trace three geographic origins of Z. nitidum . A total of 167 components were annotated in metabolomics of Z. nitidum using the molecular networking method metabolomics. Principal component analysis showed distinct metabolic phenotype variation between Z. nitidum and its adulterants, as well as among three origins produced -Z. nitidum samples. Furthermore, orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) revealed 15 biomarkers for variety discrimination, and 12 biomarkers for geographic origin discrimination of Z. nitidum . The OPLS-DA models established by these 15 biomarkers and 12 biomarkers could differentiate Z. nitidum from adulterants samples, and distinguish Z. nitidum samples from three geographical origins, respectively. This study demonstrated that our proposed comparative metabolomics coupled with molecular networks strategy has analyzing potential for identifying and determining the varieties and geographic origins of Z. nitidum , providing a useful reference for its quality control in the marketplace and clinical. • We proposed integrated strategy, molecular networks coupled with comparative metabolomics, could compare metabolic differences of Zanthoxylum nitidum from different varieties and origins. • 15 varietal markers of Z. nitidum were firstly screened using OPLS-DA model. • 12 geographical markers of Z. nitidum were firstly screened using OPLS-DA model.

Source: Industrial Crops and Products

DOI: 10.1016/j.indcrop.2025.120633

Authors: Xinghua Xiao, Qi Huang, Biying Rao, Zhaoquan Wu, Yikun Wang

Institutions: Central South University, Xiangya Hospital Central South University, Hunan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changsha Medical University

Language: English

Topic: Traditional Chinese Medicine Analysis

Subfield: Complementary and alternative medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,720