Bioscience Evidence 2024, Vol.14, No.2, 56-68 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/be 56 Systematic Review Open Access Exploring the Genome of Rehmannia glutinosa: Understanding Its Genetic Code and Medicinal Potential Jianli Lu, Lianming Zhang Traditional Chinese Medicine Research Center, Cuixi Academy of Biotechnology, Zhuji, 311800, China Corresponding author email: lianming.zhang@cuixi.org Bioscience Evidence, 2024, Vol.14, No.2 doi: 10.5376/be.2024.14.0008 Received: 01 Feb., 2024 Accepted: 09 Mar., 2024 Published: 21 Mar., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Lu and Zhang, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Lu J.L., and Zhang L.M., 2024, Exploring the genome of Rehmannia glutinosa: understanding its genetic code and medicinal potential, Bioscience Evidence, 14(2): 56-68 (doi: 10.5376/be.2024.14.0008) Abstract The main objective of this study is to explore the genome of Rehmannia glutinosa to elucidate its genetic code and understand the underlying mechanisms responsible for its medicinal properties. By integrating genomic data with traditional knowledge, this study aims to identify key bioactive compounds and their biosynthetic pathways, as well as the genetic variability within natural populations, providing insights into breeding strategies and biotechnological applications. Genomic research on Rehmannia glutinosa has revealed a complex genetic landscape with significant variability among natural populations. Key bioactive compounds, including iridoids, phenylethanoids, and polysaccharides, have been identified along with their respective biosynthetic pathways. Advances in genetic engineering and tissue culture techniques have facilitated the enhancement of medicinal traits and the large-scale production of high-quality plant material. Additionally, the integration of traditional knowledge with genomic data has led to the development of more effective and standardized herbal formulations. The findings from genomic research on Rehmannia glutinosa provide a comprehensive understanding of its genetic code and medicinal potential. These insights pave the way for the development of improved therapeutic agents and sustainable cultivation practices. Future research should focus on overcoming current genomic limitations, exploring genetic diversity, and leveraging synthetic biology for the scalable production of bioactive compounds. The interdisciplinary approach combining traditional wisdom with modern science holds great promise for unlocking the full medicinal potential of Rehmannia glutinosa. Keywords Rehmannia glutinosa; Traditional Chinese medicine; Genomic research; Bioactive compounds; Medicinal properties; Genetic diversity; Breeding strategies; Genetic engineering 1 Introduction Rehmannia glutinosa (Gaertn.) DC, a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the family Scrophulariaceae, holds a significant position in the realm of botanical research due to its unique genetic composition and extensive medicinal properties and has been extensively cultivated in China, Korea, Japan, and northern Vietnam (Kim et al., 2020; Zhang et al., 2021; Qin et al., 2022). It is characterized by its tubular flowers and fleshy roots, which are the primary source of its medicinal compounds. The plant is primarily propagated through vegetative means, which has led to challenges such as viral infections and reduced productivity (Kim et al., 2020; Qin et al., 2022). Recent advancements in genetic and tissue culture techniques have aimed to address these issues, enhancing the quality and yield of R. glutinosa (Kim et al., 2020; Li et al., 2021). The exploration of the Rehmannia glutinosa genome offers a profound understanding of its biological functions and evolutionary adaptations, making it a subject of intense scientific investigation. Rehmannia glutinosa is native to China and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for over two thousand years. Its roots are utilized in various forms, including fresh rehmannia root, processed rehmannia root, and dried rehmannia root, each preparation offering distinct therapeutic effects. Rehmannia glutinosa is renowned for its ability to nourish yin, replenish blood, and enhance the functions of the kidneys and liver. It is frequently used in TCM prescriptions to treat a range of conditions, such as anemia, hemoptysis, diabetes, fever, and gynecological disorders (Li et al., 2018; Gong et al., 2019; Qin et al., 2022). The bioactive compounds in rehmannia, such as catalpol and acteoside, have been shown to possess pharmacological activities, including anti-diabetic and anti-osteoporotic effects (Zhi et al., 2018; Gong et al., 2019; Li et al., 2022). The medicinal
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