Principles for molecular identification of traditional Chinese materia medica using DNA barcoding

Chen SL, Yao H, Han JP, Xin TY, Pang XH, Shi LC, Luo K, Song JY, Hou DY, Shi SM, Qian ZZ.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Since the research of molecular identification of Chinese Materia Medica (CMM) using DNA barcode is rapidly developing and popularizing, the principle of this method is approved to be listed in the Supplement of the Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS:

Based on the study on comprehensive samples, the DNA barcoding systems have been established to identify CMM, i.e. ITS2 as a core barcode and psbA-trnH as a complementary locus for identification of planta medica, and COI as a core barcode and ITS2 as a complementary locus for identification of animalmedica.

CONCLUSIONS:

This article introduced the principle of molecular identification of CMM using DNA barcoding and its drafting instructions. Furthermore, its application perspective was discussed

PMID:23672031 [PubMed - in process]