The application of high-throughput sequencing (HTS) of DNA barcodes can be hampered by technical challenges particularly in highly processed food. Food pre-processing and differences in guanine/cytosine composition can lead to unequal amplification or complete loss of DNA barcode components.
To address this, the authors of this study (pre-publication, open access) used a multi-omic approach that coupled DNA barcode HTS analysis with proteomic analysis. They applied it to the authentication of herbal beverages.
To resolve discrepancies between genomic and proteomic findings, the authors used traditional botanical morphology as an arbiter.
They applied their approach to a survey of herbal teas on the market in Russia. They report two adulterations of Epilobium with Lythrum — a substitution potentially hazardous to consumers (Epilobium species are popular botanical drinks around the world, including Rosebay Willowherb, “Fireweed” and “Ivan Tea”). They also found several minor substitutions, all confirmed by orthogonal methods.
They conclude that proteomic analysis provides enhanced confidence for verifying the presence or absence of plant components identified by HTS. However, its effective application is guided by prior sequencing to define specific targets for subsequent proteomic verification. A multimodal analytical approach is not only beneficial, but essential for the reliable and comprehensive characterization of components in complex plant mixtures.
Photo by Tamara Harhai on Unsplash
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