Spatial distribution of differential metabolites in different parts of Curcuma phaeocaulis Val. using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole Orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry and desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry imaging

Abstract

Background: Roots and rhizomes of Curcuma phaeocaulis Val. are used as distinct traditional Chinese medicines with a reported blood-circulating and stasis-removing effect. This may be related to differences in the accumulation and distribution of active compounds. Purpose: This study investigates spatial variations in secondary metabolites across different parts of Curcuma phaeocaulis Val. and explores the underlying pharmacological basis. Methods: Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-quadruple Orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS) coupled with desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry imaging (DESI-MSI) was employed to analyze the spatial distribution of metabolites in different parts of Curcuma phaeocaulis Val. Multivariate statistical analysis was performed to identify differential metabolites. DESI-MSI visualization further characterized the spatial distribution. Network pharmacology was subsequently employed to predict the pharmacological mechanisms of key differential components. Results: UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS analysis identified 54 chemical compounds in different parts of Curcuma phaeocaulis Val., primarily sesquiterpenes and curcuminoids. Rhizomes exhibited significantly higher levels of these compounds compared to roots. Multivariate statistical analysis using UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS and DESI-MSI identified 23 and 20 differentially abundant metabolites in roots and rhizomes, respectively, with 14 compounds common to both methods. DESI-MSI imaging localized β-elemene and curcumenol predominantly to the rhizome cortex. Network pharmacology suggests STAT3, PIK3CA, PIK3R1 and AKT1 as potential key targets for Curcuma phaeocaulis Val. in treating blood stasis. Conclusion: Spatial metabolomics revealed differential metabolite content and spatial distribution across different parts of Curcuma phaeocaulis Val. Differences in metabolite biosynthesis and accumulation likely contribute to the potential of both roots and rhizomes to ameliorate blood stasis.