Validated Identity Test Method for Ginkgo biloba NHPs Using DNA-Based Species-Specific Hydrolysis PCR Probe

Background: There is considerable risk of adulteration of Ginkgo biloba herbal products in the natural health product (NHP) industry. Authentication of G. biloba products is challenging because of the standard, complex, analytical chemistry methods that may be too costly and not appropriate for both raw and finished products. Objective: We sought to develop and validate an alternative method to authenticate G. biloba herbal dietary supplements, based on the use of a species-specific hydrolysis PCR probe assay. Methods: A species-specific hydrolysis probe assay was developed, validated, and evaluated for the performance of the assay in accurately identifying the species of interest using the following analytical validation criteria: (1) specificity (accuracy) in identifying the target species ingredient, while not identifying other nontarget species, (2) sensitivity in detecting the smallest amount of the target material, and (3) reliability (repeatability and reproducibility) in detecting the target species in raw materials on a real-time PCR platform. Results: The species-specific hydrolysis probe assay was successfully developed for raw materials of G. biloba. The specificity of the assay was 100% to the target species. Efficiency of the assay was observed to be 99%, and the reliability of the assay was 100% for the raw/starting materials. Conclusions and Highlights: The method developed in this study is simple, rapid, and easy for supplement manufacturers to perform in their laboratories to ensure that their G. biloba supplements are authentic.