Work

Optimisation of Green Extraction and In Vitro Antioxidant Activities of Polyphenols from Aiweixin Oral Liquid Residues Using UPLC-MS-Based Targeted Metabolomics

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study aimed to characterise the polyphenolic profile and evaluate the extractability of Aiweixin Oral Liquid (AWX) residues, identify polyphenolic components via targeted metabolomics, optimise ultrasonic extraction, assess in-vitro antioxidant capacity, and explore extraction-synergy mechanisms by microstructural analysis to support high-value recycling of compound Chinese medicine residues. UPLC-Q Exactive MS was used to quantify 25 polyphenols. Single-factor tests combined with Box–Behnken response-surface methodology optimised ultrasonic-assisted deep-eutectic-solvent (DES) extraction of total polyphenols. Multiple in-vitro antioxidant assays and comparative morphological observation by light microscopy and SEM were carried out. Twenty-five polyphenols, mainly phenolic acids, were characterised in AWX residues, with gallic acid (361.57 μg/g) as the most abundant constituent. The optimal conditions were liquid-to-solid ratio of 62 mL/g, DES molar ratio 1:3, ultrasonic time 50 min, and power 445 W, yielding better extraction efficiency than ethanol or water. The extract exerted dose-dependent radical-scavenging effects against DPPH, ABTS, and PTIO alongside strong reducing power. Microscopy showed ultrasonic-DES treatment destroyed residues ducts, fibres, and cells, verifying ultrasonic cavitation-promoted constituent release. AWX residues are abundant in bioactive polyphenols. This eco-friendly, high-efficiency DES-ultrasonic approach yields antioxidant-rich extracts and provides a viable theoretical basis for the resource recovery and further development of waste materials from compound traditional Chinese medicines.

Source: Processes

DOI: 10.3390/pr14203332

Authors: Xupei Lou, Shuxin Lv, Ainiwaer Aikemu, Haiyan Zhang, Shuge Tian

Institution: Xinjiang Medical University

Language: English

Topic: Phytochemicals and Antioxidant Activities

Subfield: Biochemistry

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896