TLC-UV analysis of indole compounds and other nitrogen-containing bases in the fruiting bodies of Lactarius deterrimus

We have developed a TLC method with densitometric detection for identification and quantification of 5-methylcytosine, tryptamine, melatonin, tryptophan, indoleacetic acid, and indole in the fruiting bodies of the mushroom Lactarius deterrimus. The compounds were separated on silica gel plates with fluorescence indicator F-254 by use of two mobile phases - butane-1-ol-glacial acetic acid-water, 12 + 3 + 5 (v/v), and isopropanol-25% NH3-water, 8 + 1 + 1 (v/v). Densitometry was performed at lambda = 280 nm. The method was characterized by LOD and LOQ from 0.026 to 0.179 mu g, recovery from 97.65 to 101.65%, precision (RSD) from 0.71 to 1.76%, and a wide linear range, from 0.015 to 0.96 mg mL(-1), for the different components.