Bioscience Evidence 2024, Vol.14, No.3, 98-109 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/be 106 8.2 Emerging technologies in phytochemical research The advent of advanced analytical techniques has revolutionized phytochemical research, providing new opportunities to delve deeper into the bioactive components of Rehmannia glutinosa. Technologies such as ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) coupled with triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) have enabled rapid and precise quantification of various glycosides and saccharides in the plant (Xu et al., 2019). These methods allow for a more detailed analysis of the dynamic accumulation of these compounds at different growth stages and in different plant parts. Furthermore, the use of synthetic biology and metabolic engineering, as demonstrated by the reconstitution of the FA biosynthetic pathway in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, opens new avenues for the production of plant-derived compounds in microbial hosts (Yang et al., 2019). This approach not only facilitates the study of complex biosynthetic pathways but also offers a scalable method for producing valuable bioactive compounds. 8.3 Prospective clinical trials and studies To fully harness the therapeutic potential of Rehmannia glutinosa, it is imperative to conduct rigorous clinical trials and studies. While in vitro and in vivo studies have provided insights into the pharmacological effects of its bioactive components, clinical validation is essential to confirm their efficacy and safety in humans. Future research should focus on designing well-structured clinical trials to evaluate the therapeutic benefits of compounds such as catalpol, acteoside, and ferulic acid. Additionally, exploring the synergistic effects of these compounds could lead to the development of more effective multi-component herbal formulations. The identification and functional characterization of key enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of these compounds, such as the RgCOMT enzyme for FA production, also pave the way for genetic and metabolic engineering approaches to enhance the yield and consistency of bioactive components in Rehmannia glutinosa (Yang et al., 2019). These advancements could significantly impact the development of standardized and potent herbal medicines. In conclusion, while substantial progress has been made in understanding the bioactive components of Rehmannia glutinosa, addressing the existing research gaps, leveraging emerging technologies, and conducting comprehensive clinical trials are crucial steps towards fully realizing the therapeutic potential of this valuable medicinal plant. 9 Conclusion Remarks Rehmannia glutinosa, a prominent medicinal plant in traditional Chinese medicine, has been extensively studied for its bioactive components and their pharmacological activities. Key findings from recent research highlight the identification and functional characterization of several enzymes and compounds that contribute to the biosynthesis of these bioactive components. Tyrosine Decarboxylase (RgTyDC2): A novel tyrosine decarboxylase was identified, which plays a crucial role in the biosynthesis of acteoside, a significant bioactive compound in R. glutinosa. RgTyDC2 catalyzes the conversion of tyrosine to tyramine and dopa to dopamine, with a higher efficiency towards tyrosine. The expression pattern of RgTyDC2 correlates with acteoside accumulation, suggesting its involvement in acteoside biosynthesis. Caffeic Acid O-methyltransferase (RgCOMT): The functional identification of RgCOMT has elucidated its role in the biosynthesis of ferulic acid (FA), another important bioactive compound. The overexpression of RgCOMT in R. glutinosa significantly increased FA yield. Additionally, the reconstitution of the FA biosynthetic pathway in Saccharomyces cerevisiae using R. glutinosa enzymes demonstrated the catalytic abilities of RgCOMT and other related enzymes, paving the way for efficient FA production. Dynamic Accumulation of Glycosides and Saccharides: Studies on the dynamic accumulation of glycosides and saccharides in R. glutinosa have revealed that the leaves, often discarded as non-medicinal parts, contain significant amounts of bioactive compounds such as catalpol, acteoside, and various carbohydrates. This finding suggests the potential for utilizing the leaves as a valuable resource.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ4ODYzMg==