Rapid authentication of Cordyceps by lateral flow dipstick.
Cordyceps (Dongchongxiacao), a valuable traditional Chinese medicine, is composed of the fruiting body of Ophiocordyceps sinensis (Family: Ophiocordycipitaceae) on a caterpillar of ghost-moth species (Family: Hepialidae). Owing to its multiple potential functions, Cordyceps are in great demand and represent significant economic value. Adulterants or substitutes named Cordyceps or Chongcao from related fungi have been reported. In this study, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) coupled with a lateral flow dipstick (LFD) system was developed to distinguish genuine herb O. sinensis from its common adulterant Cordyceps gunnii and Cordyceps militaris. Specific primers (EF-CS-F1-Biotin, EF-CG-F1-Biotin and EF-CM-F1- Biotin) were designed to differentiate the three Cordyceps species. Internal control (EF-F1-b-DIG and EF-R1-FITC) was included to minimize the false signal due to PCR inhibitors or DNA degradation. LFD was then successfully employed for speedy and accurate detection of the respective PCR products.
State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China (CUHK), Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China. Electronic address: wongylsally@yahoo.com.hk.
Yuk-Lau
YL
Wong
State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China (CUHK), Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China. Electronic address: klwong@cuhk.edu.hk.
Ka-Lok
KL
Wong
State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China (CUHK), Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China; School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China. Electronic address: pcshaw@cuhk.edu.hk.
Pang-Chui
PC
Shaw
D032661:Cordyceps / Q000235:genetics*; D017931:DNA Primers / Q000235:genetics; D008516:Medicine, Chinese Traditional / Q000379:methods; D016133:Polymerase Chain Reaction / Q000379:methods
D017931:DNA Primers
Cordyceps gunnii; Cordyceps militaris; Dipstick detection; Ophiocordyceps sinensis; PCR