New Genetic Barcode Developed to Curb Smuggling

To prevent excessive illegal extraction and smuggling of the endangered medicinal herb — Nag Chhatri (Trillium govanianum) to quench the never-ending thirst of the pharmaceutical industry, a Chandigarh University researcher, as part of a joint study, has developed unique DNA genetic barcodes, which would be instrumental in combating the smuggling and illegal trade of Nag Chhatri, a high-value and rare plant on the verge of extinction.

These barcodes will not only help in ensuring that trafficked plants get accurately recognized but also help detect substitutions in the market, preserving the integrity of the species and supporting conservation efforts.

Chandigarh University's Dr. Sharma and Punjabi University's Prof. Kumar have published their study on the Trillium govanianum plant (Nag Chhatri) in the renowned journal Forensic Science International: Animals and Environments and also got the approval (received Accession Number) for these barcodes from National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), United States of America (USA); now, it's available for public use and further research on the subject.