Next-generation DNA sequencing of Panax samples revealed new genotypes: Burrows-Wheeler Aligner, Python-based...

Area of Science:

• Botany
• Genetics
• Pharmacognosy

Background:

• The Panax genus includes two primary species: Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolius.
• Traditional authentication methods like nucleic acid tests are supplemented by DNA sequencing for species identification.
• DNA sequencing is crucial for differentiating ginseng when physical characteristics are ambiguous.

Purpose of the Study:

• To authenticate ginseng species using DNA sequencing.
• To identify novel genotypes within the Panax genus.
• To investigate potential hybrid samples in commercial ginseng products.

Main Methods:

• Utilized next-generation sequencing to generate millions of DNA reads from fourteen ginseng samples.
• Analyzed sequencing data using Gaussian Mixture clustering.
• Applied DNA sequencing for species authentication of root, powder, and granule forms.

Main Results:

• A previously undiscovered genotype of ginseng was identified.
• Two samples were definitively authenticated to their species.
• Clustering analysis indicated that several other samples might be of hybrid origin.

Conclusions:

• DNA sequencing provides a robust method for ginseng species authentication.
• The study identified a new ginseng genotype and potential hybrids, impacting quality control.
• Next-generation sequencing and clustering analysis are effective tools for ginseng genetic profiling.