[Identification of gentianae macrophyllae radix using the ITS2 barcodes]

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Pharmacognosy
• Genetics

Context:

• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) quality control faces challenges with sample authentication.
• DNA barcoding is emerging as a powerful tool for species identification.
• Previous research has primarily focused on leaf samples, with limited application to TCM rhizomes.

Purpose:

• To optimize DNA extraction from TCM rhizomes.
• To evaluate the efficacy of five DNA regions (ITS2, psbA-trnH, matK, rbcL, ITS) for species authentication of Gentianae Macrophyllae Radix.
• To assess the accuracy and stability of DNA barcoding for identifying authentic medicinal materials and their adulterants.

Summary:

• An improved DNA extraction method was developed for rhizome samples.
• Eighty-six samples of Gentianae Macrophyllae Radix and adulterants were analyzed using five DNA barcode regions.
• The ITS2 region demonstrated 100% success in PCR amplification and species identification, outperforming other tested regions.

Impact:

• Successfully authenticated two Gentianae Macrophyllae Radix samples from a pharmacy to the original species.
• Establishes a reliable DNA barcoding method for ensuring the quality and standardization of traditional Chinese medicine.
• Highlights the potential of DNA barcoding for regulatory compliance and preventing counterfeit medicinal products.