Harnessing multiplex PCR assay targeting specific mitochondrial DNA elements for simultaneous identification of antelope species in .

A multiplex PCR assay was developed to simultaneously differentiate four antelope species and identify adulteration in . Four novel primer sets were designed with high inter-species specificity and intra-species stability. Limit of detection was estimated to be 10 ng of genomes. When a mixture of antelope hornand fake species was assayed, it exhibited powerful differentiation capability. 5 out of 12 batches of commercialproducts were identified to be counterfeited or adulterated with Linnaeus and/or Linnaeus. It is readily applicable in routine analysis for identification of sham or adulterants of .