Identification of germplasm resources based on metabolomics and DNA barcoding.

INTRODUCTION

radix et rhizoma (Danshen) is a crucial medicinal material for treating cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. However, the presence of adulterants and intraspecific variability poses challenges to its clinical safety.

METHODS

This study collected samples of from various regions and commonly encountered adulterants. The composition differences of radix and its adulterants were analyzed by fingerprint and broad-target metabolomics. Chloroplast genome was used to distinguish intra-genus species and DNA barcoding was used to identify germplasm sources.

RESULTS

The fingerprinting analysis proved that there is no chemical composition consistency between radix and its adulterants. Broad-targeted metabolomics can distinguish radix from radix, radix, and radix. Additionally, comparative chloroplast genome analysis indicated that and were the potential DNA barcodes for . 259 samples from 13 provinces and 21 origins were amplified and sequenced, resulting in the identification of 62 haplotypes. The unique haplotypes found in Shanxi Luoyang, Shandong Qingdao and other places can be used as molecular geographic markers for the identification of the germplasm source of .

DISCUSSION

This study systematically differentiates from its adulterants and highlights the potential of unique haplotypes as markers for sourcing. The findings provide strong scientific evidence for the clinical safety of , emphasizing the importance of proper cultivation, selection, and breeding of varieties.