OBJECTIVETo establish an absorption-metabolic model suitable for studying the complex traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) system, with the classic Jinlingzi Powder formula as the example, in order to explore the correlation among absorption behavior and absorption-metabolism behavior of different Jinlingzi Powder formulas and their compound compatibility.

METHODAn absorption-metabolic model suitable for TCM study was established according to in vivo characteristics of drugs, to combine the intestinal absorption model with the liver microsomal metabolism model. A quantitative analysis was conduced for absorbable components of Jinlingzi Powder and its absorption-metabolism components by HPLC.

RESULTThe model could be used for studies on the absorption-metabolism process of TCM. Among the 15 main components which were derived from Jinlingzi Powder extracts, 10 could be absorbed by intestinal tract. A new component peak was shown after metabolism with the A-M model. The absorbable components of Jinlingzi Powder were related to its compatibility. Toosendan was found to be the major factor impacting the main component-absorption ratio (Ar) and absorption-metabolism ratio (Mr), followed by Rhizoma Corydalis.

CONCLUSIONThe absorption-metabolism model suitable for studying the complex traditional Chinese medicine system was established and used for the study on compound compatibility of Jinglingzi Powder. The compatibility of the formula has an impact on absorbable component ratio of Jinlingzi Powder, which helps interpret the theory of formula compatibility from the angle of in vitro compound pharmacokinetics (the difference between absorption and metabolism). Toosendan is the main factor impacting overall absorption and absorption-metabolism, while Rhizoma Corydalis is the minor factor.