An Online CMC–LC/MS Method for Screening Angiogenesis Promoting Components in Yiqi Fumai Lyophilization Injection (YQFM)

Abstract

Objective In this study, an online CMC–LC/MS method was established in order to screen the active components of Yiqi Fumai lyophilization injection (YQFM) related to angiogenesis. The pro-angiogenic active components of YQFM were screened using this system and were then further verified. Methods The ECV304/CMC model coupled online with an HPLC–MS system was initially developed to screen, analyze, and identify the allergenic components of YQFM. A fraction was retained on the ECV304/CMC column, which was identified as ginsenoside Rb2. A cell proliferation assay and zebrafish intestinal microvascular model labeled with green fluorescence were used to detect the proliferation effect of ginsenoside Rb2. Results (1) The active component in YQFM, which was retained on the column, was ginsenoside Rb2. (2) Within a concentration range of 2.5–20 μg/mL, ginsenoside Rb2 was shown to promote the proliferation of ECV304 and EPCs cells and increase the area of sub-intestinal vessels in zebrafish. Conclusion Ginsenoside Rb2, the active component in YQFM, can promote angiogenesis. The ECV304/CMC-online-HPLC system may serve as an effective screening tool for the vasoactive components from the traditional Chinese medicine injection.