A method to quantify the allelopathic compound batatasin-III in extracts from Empetrum hermaphroditum using gas chromatography: Applied on extracts from leaves of different ages

A gas chromatographic method was developed to quantify the allelopathic compound, batatasin-III, in organic and water extracts of leaves from the boreal dwarf shrub Empetrum hermaphroditum. The method provides a rapid and inexpensive quantification of small masses of batatasin-III in complex matrices. The compound was effectively separated from interfering compounds using solid-phase extraction techniques and chromatographed as a TMS-derivate on a nonpolar column. Batatasin-III was quantified in leaves and found to vary with the age of the shoot. The concentration of batatasin-III was highest in first- and second-year shoots, while third-year shoots contained about half that of younger shoots. Senescent leaves on older shoots still contained a considerable amount of batatasin-III. The method described provides an important tool for the demonstration of allelopathy.