The concept, core theory and research methods of Chinese medicine quality markers

Q-marker is a new concept of quality control for traditional Chinese medicine. Since its introduction in 2016, it has received extensive support and participation from researchers and manufactures of the entire industry. In order to establishing the research level of quality markers, normative research model, we review the proposed core theory and research methods of Chinese medicine quality markers. The definition and scientific connotation of Chinese medicine quality markers are analyzed. The core theories and research methods of quality markers are summarized from five aspects:"effectiveness", "specificity", "transfer and traceability", "compatibility environment" and "measurability" of quality markers. This paper aims to provide useful theoretical and methodological guidance for studying Chinese medicine quality markers.