OBJECTIVETo set up a capillary electrophoresis method with field-amplified sample injection for the determination f aconitine and hypaconitine in Gucixiaotong Ye.

METHODAn uncoated fused-silica capillary column (50 microm x 50 cm, effective length 42 cm) was used as the separation channel. The running buffer was 50 mmol x L(-1) phosphate electrolyte solution (pH 9)-m nol (90:10) , the running voltage was 10 kV and the capillary inlet was dipped in methanol for 5 s prior to electrokinetic injection (12 kV, 30 s), the detection wavelength was set at 235 nm.

RESULTAconitine and hypaconitine were linear in the concentration ranges of 17.2-275 microg x L(-1) and 34. 4-550 microg x L(-1), respectively. The average recovery was more than 93.9% with the RSD of 3.8%. This method could enrich 500 fold of aconitine alkaloid.

CONCLUSIONThe method is simple, rapid and specific with high stacking efficiency, it provides a new reliable means for production and quality control of Gucixiaotong Ye.