Supercritical fluid-based protocol for the identification and quantitation of triterpenoids in commercial Inonotus obliquus (chaga) samples
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Inonotus obliquus is a fungal pathogen that parasitizes the trunks of broadleaved tree species. The sclerotia of this fungus, so-called chaga, show a broad range of traditional and medicinal uses. The increasing market for chaga supplements, promoted for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic properties, highlights the need for standardized identity and quality control methodologies. In this study, the first supercritical fluid-based protocol for the extraction, isolation, identification and quantitation of six characteristic chaga constituents [lanosterol ( 1 ), ergosterol ( 2 ), inotodiol ( 3 ), trametenolic acid B ( 4 ), betulin ( 5 ) and inonotsutriol A ( 6 )] was developed and validated. Semi-preparative supercritical fluid chromatography was utilized, to obtain lanosterol ( 1 ), inotodiol ( 3 ) and inonotsutriol A ( 6 ). Ultra-high-performance supercritical fluid chromatography allowed for a separation of the standard compounds within 10 min. Good results regarding linearity (R 2 ≥ 0.99) were obtained for photodiode array detection, with a lowest detection limit of 0.424 μg/mL. A 20-minute exhaustive SFE method was applied to 14 commercial chaga samples, yielding extracts ranging from 0.17% to 0.58%. The qualitative composition of the extracts was consistent, with inotodiol ( 3 ), trametenolic acid B ( 4 ), and lanosterol ( 1 ) as the most abundant constituents. Notably, inonotsutriol A ( 6 ) was quantified in commercial chaga samples for the first time. The use of supercritical fluid technology enabled a fast, selective, and environmentally friendly extraction, isolation, and analysis of compounds. This protocol offers a sustainable alternative to traditional chromatographic methods and could serve as a valuable tool for the authenticity and quality control of chaga raw materials and supplements.
Source: Journal of Chromatography A
Language: English
Subfield: Pharmacology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,040
OpenAlex ID: W4412043770