Objective: To establish a method of fingerprint analysis on Polygoni Multipiori Caulis formula granules by HPLC

identify the main chemical compounds

and provide a reference for their quality control. Method: The HPLC method was used to determine the HPLC fingerprint of fifteen batches of Polygoni Multipiori Caulis formula granules from different manufacturers. The analysis was performed on a Waters XBridgeTM shield RP18 C18 column with acetonitrile-0.1% acetic acid solution as the mobile phase for gradient elution. The flow rate was 1.0 mL·min-1; the detection wavelength was 271 nm; the column temperature was 30 ℃; and the injection volume was 15 μL. Result: The fingerprint of Polygoni Multipiori Caulis formula granules was established

and the results were calculated according to Similarity Evaluation System for Traditional Chinese Medicine Chromatographic Fingerprint. With the analysis of the HPLC fingerprints

totally eight common peaks were found

including six identified peaks for gallic acid

protocatechuic acid

catechin

2

3

5

4'-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-β-D-glucoside

emodin

and physcion. Good similarities were found in the established fingerprint through similarity analysis and the resolution was good. Main characteristic peaks were also determined

and the similarities of the chromatograms were all larger than 0.86

which can realize comprehensive and overall evaluation of its chemical compositions and better control the quality. Conclusion: The method is simple and accurate with good reproducibility

which may provide the reference for quality control and evaluation of Polygoni Multipiori Caulis formula granules.