Abstract: Objective To ensure the safety and efficacy of Tripterygii Radix for clinical use, we conducted a literature review on the origin of Tripterygii Radix and established a specific rapid PCR molecular identification method. Methods The origin of Tripterygii Radix were validated by reviewing literature reports; the DNA barcodes of Tripterygii Radix and the forgeries were compared. The specific identification sites with stable differences were screened, the identification primers were designed and the specific rapid PCR amplification conditions were optimized. Results The literature review revealed that Tripterygium wilfordii and Tripterygium hypoglaucum hutch had a large number of intermediate types and blurred interspecific boundaries in terms of plant morphological characteristics, secondary metabolite characteristics of medicinal parts and genetic information system differentiation. A specific rapid PCR method was developed to identify the authenticity of Tripterygii radix. All authentic Tripterygii Radix were able to amplify the target gene bands between 300 and 400 bp, while no corresponding bands were found for the forgeries. Conclusion It is suggested that Tripterygium wilfordii and Tripterygium hypoglaucum hutch should be combined as a source of Tripterygii Radix, and a rapid, accurate and stable specific rapid PCR method should be established for Tripterygii Radix and its hybrid for authenticity identification.

Key words: Tripterygium wilfordii, Tripterygium hypoglaucum hutch, origin, molecular identification, specific rapid PCR