Differentiation of Isodon japonica and Adulterants Based on Identification and Quantitation 14 Diterpenoids Using LC-MS-MS Library Search Approach and Hierarchical Cluster Analysis.

The aim of this study was to investigate the chemical differences between genunine Isodon japonica and its adulterants. A linear ion trap liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry analytical method has been developed for the identification and quantification of 14 major diterpenoids in I. japonica. Data acquisition was multiple reaction monitoring transitions mode followed by an information-dependent acquisition using the enhanced product ion (EPI) scan in a single run. The target compounds were further identified and confirmed using an EPI spectral library. Overall validation of the assay was carried out including linearity, accuracy, precision, limits of detection and quantification. The results demonstrated that the method was selective, sensitive and reliable. The determination results of 21 batches of I. japonica and adulterants were then analyzed and differentiated by hierarchical clustering analysis.