Identification of ethnic medicine Salvia yunnanensis and its closely related species based on DNA barcode technique / 中草药

ABSTRACT

Objective To explore the application of DNA barcode technology in identification of ethnic medicine Salvia yunnanensis and its related species, so as to provide reference for identification of S. yunnanensis. Methods A DNA barcode database of S. yunnanensis and its adulterants was successfully constructed. Data were analyzed by aligning sequences, analyzing variation sites, calculating genetic distances, and establishing Neighbor-Joining trees. The database was used to identify 45 S. yunnanensis decoction piece samples purchased from drug stores. Results The results showed that the ITS2 barcodes can be used to identify S. yunnanensis and its adulterants. Conclusion The use of DNA barcoding for market supervision can broaden the application of this technology and provide an excellent inspection method for the supervisory institutions. This study substantially contributes to the protection of public health worldwide.