Rapid Determination of Diverse Ganoderic Acids in Ganoderma Using UPLC–MS/MS

Background: Ganoderma is known for its pharmaceutical, nutritional, and functional benefits. Its primary bioactive components are ganoderic acids. However, previous quantification methods only analyzed an individual or limited number of ganoderic acids. This study aims to develop a reliable method for simultaneously quantifying the major ganoderic acids to enhance Ganoderma quality control and study its active ingredients. Methods: We developed a rapid quality assessment method to simultaneously determine the eleven ganoderic acids in Ganoderma using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). The sample extraction method, along with mass spectrometric detection and chromatographic separation conditions was optimized. The separation was carried out using the ACQUITY UPLC BEH C18 column with a gradient elution of 0.1% (v/v) formic acid in water and acetonitrile. The mass spectrometry utilized negative mode electrospray ionization (ESI), with quantitative analysis being carried out in the MRM mode. Results: The calibration curves showed good correlation coefficients (r² > 0.998). The recovery range was 89.1–114.0%. The intra-day and inter-day relative standard deviation (RSD) were below 6.8% (n = 6) and 8.1% (n = 6), respectively. Furthermore, the detection and quantification limits were 0.66–6.55 μg/kg and 2.20–21.84 μg/kg, respectively. All 11 ganoderic acids in the sample solution remained stable at room temperature for 72 hours. A total of 11 ganoderic acids were quantified in the 13 Ganoderma samples. The levels of ganoderic acids were higher in Ganoderma lucidum than in Ganoderma sinense Conclusion: The method developed in this study can quantify ganoderic acids in Ganoderma lucidum, thus establishing a technical foundation for evaluating the Ganoderma quality.