Bioscience Methods 2024, Vol.15, No.5, 244-254 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/bm 244 Feature Review Open Access Comprehensive Genomic Analysis of Atractylodes macrocephala: Unveiling Its Medicinal Functions and Genetic Secrets Xichen Wang, Huixian Li, Chuchu Liu Institute of Life Sciences, Jiyang Colloge of Zhejiang A&F University, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China Corresponding author: chuchu.liu@jicat.org Bioscience Methods, 2024, Vol.15, No.5 doi: 10.5376/bm.2024.15.0025 Received: 13 Aug., 2024 Accepted: 25 Sep., 2024 Published: 18 Oct., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Wang et al., 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: Wang X.C., Li H.X., and Liu C.C., 2024, Comprehensive genomic analysis of Atractylodes macrocephala: unveiling its medicinal functions and genetic secrets, Bioscience Methods, 15(5): 244-254 (doi: 10.5376/bm.2024.15.0025) Abstract Atractylodes macrocephalais a key herb in traditional medicine with diverse medicinal properties. This study provides an overview of its botanical, phytochemical, pharmacological, and genomic aspects, highlighting its potential in modern medicine and agriculture. The study covers the morphological characteristics, geographic distribution, and cultivation techniques of A. macrocephala. It details the phytochemical composition, methods of analysis, and biological activities. Traditional medicinal uses and pharmacological activities such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties are discussed. Genomic analysis includes genome sequencing, functional gene annotation, and comparative genomics. The genetic basis of medicinal properties, including key genes and pathways, phytochemical biosynthesis, and pharmacological activities, is examined. Biotechnological applications like genetic engineering, breeding, conservation, and synthetic biology are also studyed. This study consolidates knowledge on A. macrocephala, emphasizing its traditional and modern applications. Future research should address knowledge gaps, leverage emerging technologies, and integrate genomic data with traditional knowledge to enhance its medicinal and agricultural use. Keywords Atractylodes macrocephala; Traditional medicine; Phytochemicals; Genomic analysis; Biotechnological applications 1 Introduction Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz., commonly known as Baizhu in China, is a perennial herb belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is widely distributed across East Asia and is cultivated primarily in China, Japan, and Korea for its medicinal properties (Zhu et al., 2018; Liu et al., 2022). The plant has been extensively studied for its phytochemical composition, revealing a rich array of bioactive compounds including sesquiterpenoids, triterpenoids, polyacetylenes, and polysaccharides (Zhu et al., 2018; Yang et al., 2021). The complete plastome sequence of A. macrocephala has been characterized, providing valuable insights into its genetic makeup and evolutionary relationships within the Atractylodes genus (Cai et al., 2020; Wang et al., 2020). Atractylodes macrocephala holds a significant place in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and other East Asian medical systems. It has been used for centuries as a tonic agent to treat a variety of ailments including gastrointestinal dysfunction, cancer, osteoporosis, obesity, and fetal irritability (Chen et al., 2018; Zhu et al., 2018). The dried rhizome of A. macrocephala, known as Baizhu, is particularly valued for its ability to invigorate the spleen, replenish qi, and remove dampness (Yang et al., 2021). Modern pharmacological studies have confirmed its diverse therapeutic effects, such as anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activities (Zhu et al., 2018; Gu et al., 2019; Bailly, 2020). The plant's essential oils and specific compounds like atractylenolides have shown promising antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties (Gu et al., 2019; Bailly, 2020). This study aims to provide a comprehensive genomic analysis of Atractylodes macrocephala, integrating its medicinal functions and genetic secrets. This study summarizes the current knowledge on the phytochemistry and pharmacology of Atractylodes macrocephala, explores the genetic diversity and evolutionary relationships within the Asteraceae family, investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying the medicinal properties of Atractylodes macrocephala, and identifies potential areas for future research to enhance the therapeutic applications and conservation of this valuable medicinal herb.
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