Comprehensively evaluating the quality consistency of Forsythia suspensa by five-wavelength mean fusion fingerprint profiling combined with spectrum quantum fingerprint and antioxidant activity

Abstract

The objective of this study was to provide a comprehensive assessment methodology for the quality control of Forsythia suspensa (FS). The peak purity was initially determined by dual-wavelength absorption coefficient ratio profiling (DACRP). Subsequently, to overcome the drawbacks of single-wavelength assessment, the fingerprint profiles of multiple wavelengths were fused and the UV and IR spectrum data of Forsythia suspensa were processed to create quantum fingerprint profiles, which were later evaluated by the method of quantitative comprehensive ratio fingerprint (MQCRF). An online antioxidant system and a partial least squares model were also used to establish fingerprint efficacy relationships, investigate the use of chromatographic peaks and the UV spectrum in antioxidant activity, and predict potential bioactive substances and their distribution wavelength ranges. Finally, the quality consistency of Forsythia suspensa was comprehensively described and evaluated.