Cordycepin is a bioactive derivative of the nucleoside adenosine and is one of the primary bioactive components identified in Cordyceps militaris species of fungus [1]. Cordycepin has gained significant attention for its pharmacological properties, including antineoplastic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities [2].
It was extensively used in China of many ears but has recently grown in popularity in the west as a herbal alternative to prescribed medication [3, 4]. However, accurate quantification of cordycepin and its derivatives in food products remains challenging due to matrix complexity and variability in formulation. Particularly worrisome are dietary supplements as they are largely unregulated, making it unclear whether the product contains the advertised dose or even the correct compound. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop and optimize a liquid chromatography method for the precise analysis of cordycepin and adenosine in commercial supplements, ensuring reliable detection and quantification.
A high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method was developed and validated to enhance sensitivity and selectivity. In addition, a time-of-flight mass spectrometer (TOF) was used to ensure the correct analytes were detected. The method was optimized for column selection, mobile phase composition, flow rate, and detection wavelength to achieve optimal separation and resolution. Sample preparation techniques and dilution strategies, were evaluated to improve analyte recovery and reduce matrix interference. Using the optimized conditions, results were obtained for several dietary supplements produced both locally and abroad. All samples contained significant amounts of cordycepin and adenosine, confirming the sellers’ claims.
Preliminary results demonstrate that the optimized HPLC method successfully quantifies cordycepin and adenosine with high accuracy, precision, and reproducibility. The method exhibits excellent linearity, limit of detection (LOD), and limit of quantification (LOQ) within the expected ranges found in supplements. Additionally, recovery rates confirm the method’s effectiveness in minimizing matrix effects.
These findings provide a robust analytical framework for quality control and standardization of cordycepin-containing supplements. The optimized chromatography method enhances the reliability of bioactive compound analysis and can be applied in regulatory and research settings to ensure product consistency and efficacy.