Comprehensive comparison on antioxidant properties and UPLC-Q-TOF/MS-based metabolomics discrimination between Gentiana veitchiorum and G. szechenyii

Bang Jian has a long-standing history of medicinal use, noted for its detoxifying effects and the treatment of various fevers, laryngitis, and thermal illnesses. Presently, Gentiana veitchiorum and G. szechenyii are the predominant varieties utilized. However, comparative data on their chemical compositions remains scarce. In this study, employing UPLC-Q-TOF/MS metabolomics, conducted a comprehensive comparison of the chemical constituents in G. veitchiorum and G. szechenyii and assessed their antioxidant activities. Results indicated both varieties exhibit significant antioxidant capabilities, with G. szechenyii displaying superior efficacy. The IC50 values for DPPH, Hydroxyl, and ABTS in G. szechenyii were determined to be 0.16, 0.48, and 0.80 mg/mL, respectively. Through UPLC-Q-TOF/MS, 56 compounds were identified, revealing notable differences in metabolite composition between the two species. 24 differential metabolites were identified as potential chemometric markers, facilitating the accurate differentiation of G. veitchiorum and G. szechenyii. Correlation analyses identified six compounds—depressine, szechenyin A, syringic acid, isoorientin-2′'-O-glucopyranoside, isoscoparin 2″-O-glucoside, and naringenin—as significant to the variance in antioxidant activity. These findings enhance our understanding of the phytochemical and antioxidant properties of G. veitchiorum and G. szechenyii, offering a theoretical foundation for their clinical application.