Regional comparison study of Epimedium koreanum using UHPLC-QTOF/MS-based metabolomics approach

The untargeted metabolomics-based molecular networking approach combined with multivariate analysis, proves to be an effective strategy for distinguishing raw materials in herbal medicine according to specific criteria. It exhibits the correlations between chemical constituents and the geographical habitats of plants, providing a valuable tool for ensuring quality control in mass production within the industry. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive investigation of the chemical compositions of Epimedium koreanum Nakai and performed comparative analyses on four extracts collected from distinct regions in South Korea using untargeted metabolomics tools. Through the comprehensive use of UPLC-QTOF/MS analysis and advanced statistical techniques, we elucidated the chemical composition, leading to the identification of key chemical markers. Additionally, the molecular networking analysis revealed distinct clusters of flavonoids and phenolic acids, highlighting the influence of regional factors on the metabolite profiles. These findings offer a promising avenue for enhancing quality control and traceability in the herbal medicine industry, underscoring the important role of geographical variation in the chemical profiles of herbal products.