[Rapid identification of Cordyceps and its products using DNA barcoding method]

Area of Science:

• Pharmacognosy
• Molecular Biology
• Traditional Chinese Medicine

Background:

• Cordyceps is a highly valued traditional Chinese medicine.
• Market availability is limited, leading to widespread adulteration and counterfeiting.
• Authenticity verification is crucial for therapeutic efficacy and consumer safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate DNA-based methods for identifying genuine Cordyceps.
• To differentiate Cordyceps from its adulterants and related products.
• To establish rapid and specific identification techniques for quality control.

Main Methods:

• DNA barcoding using Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) and Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene sequences.
• Development of specific Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) primers (ITSSF1/ITSSR1 and ITSSF2/ITSSR2).
• Analysis of 116 Cordyceps samples, 146 host specimens, and 29 related products.

Main Results:

• DNA barcoding successfully differentiated Cordyceps from adulterants using ITS and COI sequences.
• Developed specific primers amplified distinct ITS regions (297 bp and 136 bp) of Cordyceps sinensis.
• The method accurately identified C. sinensis, differentiated powdered Cordyceps from fermentation mycelia, and identified related products.

Conclusions:

• DNA barcoding and specific PCR offer efficient and reliable methods for Cordyceps authentication.
• The developed primers provide rapid and specific identification of Cordyceps sinensis.
• This approach enhances quality control for traditional Chinese medicines, combating adulteration.