Hong Kong’s Department of Health has developed rapid DNA detection methods to analyse the authenticity of Chinese medicines.

The Hong Kong Department of Health’s Government Chinese Medicines Testing Institute (GCMTI) is developing efficient testing methods involving advanced equipment and innovative technology for Chinese medicines.

Lu Rong, or velvet antler, is a valued Chinese medicinal material. However, verifying the authenticity of Lu Rong slices through traditional DNA testing methods is both complex and time-consuming.

Since 2017, the GCMTI has completed 22 thematic research projects, including a rapid DNA detection method that authenticates genuine Lu Rong slices.

Under this method, laboratory staff add an extraction solution to powdered Lu Rong samples to replicate and amplify the DNA within the samples. Following specific processing steps, authentic samples glow orange under ultraviolet light. The method slashes the testing procedure from three days to less than a day.

Darwin Mak, assistant director of health for Chinese medicine, said the method developed by the institute reduces both time and costs, helping to boost quality control and efficiency.

Compound Chinese medicine granules contain multiple Chinese medicines, each of which previously required separate quality tests, he continued. The institute’s chemical analysis protocol enables simultaneous assessment of multiple chemical markers across various formulations.

The GCMTI’s permanent building in Tseung Kwan O began operations late last year. Spanning a total floor area of approximately 27,000 square metres, the facility boosts the institute’s R&D capabilities.

The institute has four laboratories, including an electronic sensory analysis system. A pilot project has been launched, using this system, to digitise the taste of Chinese medicines in a database, allowing for the development of identification techniques based on taste data.

Tommy Li, president of the Federation of the Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Practitioners & Chinese Medicine Traders Association, said that relying solely on experience or appearance can lead to confusion when authenticating herbs. Through microscopic identification, the industry can determine the authenticity of Chinese medicines more effectively, saving considerable time and money.