UPLC-Q-TOF/MS characterization of efficacy substances on osteoblasts differentiation and function in rat serum after administration of Wang-Bi tablet.

Wang-Bi tablet (WB) is popularly used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. However, few studies have been carried out on its active ingredients and mechanism. In this study, the effect of WB medicated serum on the changes in differentiation and function in osteoblast was investigated, the results showed that WB induced the production of ALP and mineralized nodules to promote the final maturation of osteoblasts and enhance the function of osteoblasts. The potential mechanism may that WB significantly inhibits gene expressions of RANKL and miR-141, up-regulates the gene expressions of RUNX2 and OPG, decreases expression of DKK-1 and increases levels of β-catenin protein to promote the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways, which enhances osteogenesis and bone repair function. To investigate which compounds contributed to the activity and mechanisms, a total of 138 compounds were characterized from WB, and 13 parent molecules and eight metabolites in rat serum were rapidly characterized by UPLC-Q-TOF/MS. Total glycosides of paeony, loganin, α-linolenic acid, linoleic acid and naringin from WB may contribute to the actions on osteoblasts according to our study and literature review. Our research provides a method to explore the bioactive ingredients and action mechanisms of WB.