A specific gene, TSA, used as endogenous reference gene for qualitative and real-time quantitative PCR detection of Termitomyces albuminosus

As a nutritious and high-value wild edible mushroom, Termitomyces albuminosus is very popular among people. However, this has caused many unscrupulous businessmen to adulterate it in order to gain huge profits. Qualitative and quantitative PCR identification based on the endogenous reference gene has been widely used to detect the source components of the species. In this work, we screened a large number of DNA sequence of T. albuminosus in the GenBank database by BLAST comparison and interspecies homology comparison, and finally the TSA gene was selected as the candidate. Then, primers were designed for the species-specific regions of the TSA gene, and the specificity was verified by qualitative PCR with 18 other mushroom species. In addition, qualitative and quantitative PCR sensitivity assays were performed, and the limits of detection were 2.56 ng and 200 pg respectively. The detection system was also applied in the deep processed products, the results were consistent with those in the labeled ingredients. In conclusion, we have proposed the TSA gene as an endogenous reference gene for T. albuminosus for the first time, which providing an effective assistance to protect consumers' benefits and promote the positive development of the T. albuminosus industry.

Automated summary

The article introduces a detection method for T. albuminosus mushrooms using the TSA gene as an endogenous reference gene. The method is validated through qualitative and quantitative PCR, providing a fast and accurate way to detect T. albuminosus and protect consumers' rights while promoting the industry.