Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis of Five Bioactive Flavonoids in Salix bordensis Turcz. by HPLC-DAD and HPLC-ESI-MS

Abstract

The qualitative characterization and quantitative analysis of five bioactive flavonoids in Salix bordensis Turcz. were achieved via reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection and tandem mass spectrometry, by using an Agilent ZORBAX SB-C18 HPLC column with a gradient elution of 0.3% (v/v) formic acid in water and methanol as the mobile phase. The compounds in the mixture were clearly identified by comparing their HPLC-DAD ultraviolet spectra, retention times, and MS data with those of corresponding reference compounds. All calibration curves showed good linearity (r2 > 0.9998) within the test ranges. The LOD, LOQ, specificity, precision, and accuracy for the method were validated. The results demonstrated that this analytical approach is ideal for the determination of bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids, and that it constructed a basis for the comprehensive evaluation of the quality of Salix bordensis Turcz.