Chemical Profiling and UPLC-qTOF-MS/MS-Based Metabolomics of Three Different Parts of Edgeworthia chrysantha and Identification of Glucose Uptake-Enhancing Compounds.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Edgeworthia chrysantha is rich in coumarin and flavonoid dimers, which may exhibit diverse pharmacological activities. However, to date, no metabolomics studies have been conducted and its bioactive constituents related to glucose metabolism remain uncharacterized. This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive chemical analysis combined with bioactivity assays to evaluate its efficacy in promoting glucose uptake. METHODS: Chemical profiling of three parts (leaf, stem, and root) of E. chrysantha was performed using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS spectrometry, followed by metabolomics analysis. Based on the chemical profiles and glucose uptake activity, compounds were isolated from the root. Their structures were elucidated using spectroscopic techniques, including UV, NMR, and mass spectrometry. The glucose uptake activity of the isolated compounds was assessed using a 2-NBDG assay. RESULTS: Metabolic analysis revealed distinct chemical compositions among the plant parts. Dimeric coumarins and biflavonoids were abundant in the root, whereas flavonoid monomers were predominant in the leaf. Bioactivity-guided isolation yielded nine compounds (1-9), among which compound 1, a newly identified coumarin glycoside, exhibited significant glucose uptake-enhancing activity. Molecular docking analysis further suggested that compound 1 activates AMPK through an allosteric site, thereby promoting glucose uptake. CONCLUSIONS: These findings provide a comprehensive chemical and metabolomic characterization of E. chrysantha and highlight its potential as a functional food ingredient for glucose-lowering effects.