Abstract:

【Objective】 A systematic method for anthocyanin identification using tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) coupled to Ultra performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) with photo-diode array detection (PDA) was developed. Isolation and identification of anthocyanins from blue, purple wheat grains were made, and then the compositions of anthocyanin were revealed. 【Method】 Wheat grains were extracted by 90% methanol-water solution (containing 0.5% formic acid), ultrasonic assisted extraction was employed, and purified on SPE C18 column. The precursor ions of anthocyanins were scanned using UPLC/MS/MS on a triple quadrupole instrument allowing for the specific determination of each category of anthocyanins. Further characterization of each anthocyanin was performed using MS/MS product-ion scanning, full scanning and MRM (multiple reaction monitoring). 【Result】 Fourteen anthocyanins were identified in blue and purple wheat grains. Significant difference was found in the composition and content of anthocyanins among different wheat varieties. 【Conclusion】 The study has defined the compositions and contents of anthocyanins in blue and purple wheat grains. The present approach allows mass spectrometry to be used as a highly selective detector for rapid identification and characterization of anthocyanins in wheat grain.

Key words: UPLC/MS/MS, anthocyanins, blue, purple wheat grains, identification and characterization