Exploring the Q-markers of Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels of anti-platelet aggregation activity based on spectrum-effect relationships.

The radix of Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels (RAS) is widely used in medicinal and dietary applications in China, which has the function for replenishing and invigorating the blood, stopping pain, and moistening the intestines. In this study, the RAS from geoherb regions showed better efficacy in inhibiting ADP-induced or AA-induced platelet aggregation than those in non-geoherbs. In addition, the HPLC fingerprints of 30 batches of RAS, realizing the comprehensive evaluation of RAS, were established and used for spectral efficiency to screen the quality markers (Q-Markers) on anti-platelet aggregation activities. Five compounds in RAS, senkyunolide I, uridine, guanine, ferulic acid, and adenosine, were demonstrated to contribute significantly to the anti-platelet aggregation activity. These bioactive compounds, especially senkyunolide I and ferulic acid with stronger activities, could be used as Q-Markers of RAS for quality control of RAS. [KEYWORDS: Angelica sinensis; Q-Markers; anti-platelet aggregation; senkyunolide I; ferulic acid.