| Abstract: |
<p>Background: The medicinal material known as Os Draconis (Longgu) originates from fossilized remains of ancient mammals and is widely used in treating emotional and mental conditions. However, fossil resources are nonrenewable, and clinical demand is increasingly difficult to meet, leading to a proliferation of counterfeit products. During prolonged geological burial, static pressure from the surrounding strata severely compromises the microstructural integrity of osteons in Os Draconis, but Os Draconis still largely retains the structural features of mammalian bone. Methods: Using verified authentic Os Draconis samples over 10,000 years old as a baseline, this study summarizes the ultrastructural characteristics of genuine Os Draconis. Employing electron probe microanalysis and optical polarized light microscopy, we examined 28 batches of authentic Os Draconis and 31 batches of counterfeits to identify their ultrastructural differences. Key points for ultrastructural identification of Os Draconis were compiled, and a new identification approach was proposed based on these differences. Results: Authentic Os Draconis exhibited distinct ultrastructural markers: irregularly shaped osteons with traversing fissures, deformed/displaced Haversian canals, and secondary mineral infill (predominantly calcium carbonate). Counterfeits showed regular osteon arrangements, absent traversal fissures, and homogeneous hydroxyapatite composition. Lab-simulated samples lacked structural degradation features. EPMA confirmed calcium carbonate infill in fossilized Haversian canals, while elemental profiles differentiated lacunae types (void vs. mineral-packed). Conclusion: The study established ultrastructural criteria for authentic Os Draconis identification: osteon deformation, geological fissures penetrating bone units, and heterogenous mineral deposition. These features, unattainable in counterfeits or modern processed bones, provide a cost-effective, accurate identification method. This approach bridges gaps in TCM material standardization and supports quality control for clinical applications.</p> |
