The use of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the identification of ephedra DNA in dietary supplements

Planta medica
Natascha TechenBrian E Scheffler

Abstract

As part of a continuing research effort to develop chemical and genetic authentication profiles of botanicals, an investigation was performed with the goal to detect, identify and verify Ephedra sinica Stapf DNA in dietary supplements such as plant mixtures and tablets/capsules. We amplified and sequenced the chloroplast psbA-trnH spacer from 21 Ephedra spp. and from two of their closest relatives, Gnetum gnemon L. and Welwitschia mirabilis Hook. Based on sequence comparisons, we identified regions unique to all of the Ephedra spp. samples analyzed. We concluded that the psbA-trnH spacer sequence could be used as a molecular marker. Based on this spacer sequence, we designed Ephedra spp.-specific primers that can help to identify Ephedra spp. DNA in plant mixtures containing as little as 1/1,000 part of Ephedra spp. tissue. We used a DNA extraction method that allows for quick DNA isolation from plant mixtures for PCR analysis.

Citations

Jul 16, 2014·Journal of Ethnopharmacology·Anna Rita Bilia
Jun 9, 2011·Critical Reviews in Biotechnology·Maryam SarwatPrem Shankar Srivastava
Apr 30, 2011·Journal of Zhejiang University. Science. B·Chuan ChenCheng-xin Fu
Dec 18, 2020·Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety·Liliana GrazinaIsabel Mafra

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