Innovation theory, technical methods and industrial application of quality marker of traditional Chinese medicine

Quality marker (Q-Marker) of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a new concept of TCM quality research. Since it was proposed in 2016, it has aroused wide response from the industry and has become an innovative theory and technical method leading the quality research and quality control of TCM. This paper summarized the core connotation, theoretical basis and innovative value of Q-Marker, proposed the technical strategies and paths of the Q-Marker research, and showed the prospect of its application in the TCM industry. The paper provides references for TCM quality research, quality evaluation, quality control and scientific supervision and has important significance for promoting the quality standard and quality control level of TCM.