Recent Advances in Molecular Marker-Assisted Breeding for Quality Improvement of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Background: The quality of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), reflected by its bioactive compounds and associated contents, is directly linked to its clinical efficacy. Therefore, it is of great importance to improve the quality of TCM by increasing the bioactive compound content. Methods: Mapping the active component content-associated QTLs in TCM and further marker-assisted breeding have enabled us to rapidly and effectively cultivate new varieties with high bioactive compound contents, which has opened the door for genetic breeding studies on medicinal plants. Results: In this paper, a strategy and technical molecular breeding method for TCM are discussed. The development of, four methods of and progress in functional marker development as well as the applications of such markers in TCM are reviewed. Conclusion: The progress in, challenges of, and future of marker-assisted breeding for quality improvement of TCM are discussed, which provide valuable scientific references for future molecular breeding.