Study of the differential active components and anti-proliferative effects of Gardenia jasminoides J.Ellis at different harvesting periods

Objective To investigate the quality standards and anti-proliferative effects of Gardenia jasminoides J.Ellis (GJE) at different harvesting periods, and to determine the optimal harvesting time for anti-cancer applications. Methods A fast, simple, and accurate analytical method was established using UFLC/Q-TOF-MS technology in positive and negative ion modes to identify differential components in GJE samples collected at seven harvesting periods. The anti-proliferative effects of GJE extracts were evaluated against MCF7 breast cancer and HepG2 hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines using MTT assay. Results A total of 52 components were successfully identified from GJE samples, including iridoid glycosides, flavonoids, and phenolic acids. GJE demonstrated stronger anti-proliferative effects against HepG2 cells compared to MCF7 cells. The anti-proliferative activity increased progressively with fruit maturation, reaching peak efficacy at stages 5–6 (orange-red to red fruits) and declining at stage 7 (overripe dark red fruits). Most iridoid glycosides, flavonoids and phenolic acids showed increasing trends during the growth process, correlating with enhanced anti-proliferative effects. Conclusion GJE may serve as a potential source for developing anti-cancer therapeutic agents due to its demonstrated anti-proliferative activity. The mature fruits at stages 5–6 are most suitable for anti-cancer applications, providing scientific guidance for optimal harvesting time and quality standardization of GJE as a medicinal material.