Integrated metabolomics and network pharmacology to reveal the therapeutic mechanism of Dingkun Pill on polycystic ovary syndrome.

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Dingkun Pill (DKP), a traditional Chinese medicine prescription, was modified from Bujing decoction and Xusijiangsheng pill by the imperial physician in the Qing dynasty (1700' s). It was believed to treat various gynecological diseases by nourishing qi and blood. Accumulating evidence indicates that it is effective in treating polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

In vivo and in vitro metabolism study of traditional Chinese medicine formula Dingkun Dan in rats by using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry.

Dingkun Dan (DKD), a reputable traditional Chinese medicine formula, has been used to treat gynecological diseases and showed significant clinical effects since ancient times. However, the application and development of DKD are seriously hampered by the unclear active substances. Structural characterization of compounds absorbed in vivo and their corresponding metabolites is significant for clarifying the pharmacodynamic material basis.