Medicinal Plant Research 2024, Vol.14, No.2, 97-106 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/mpr 98 By integrating genomic, transcriptomic, and metabolomic data, this study identified key genetic and biochemical markers associated with the plant's therapeutic efficacy. The study will also investigate the potential for using different parts of the plant as alternative medicinal resources, thereby promoting comprehensive exploitation and utilization of L. japonica. This study hopes to contribute to the development of improved medicinal varieties of Lonicera japonica, ensuring its continued relevance and efficacy in traditional and modern medicine. By focusing on these aspects, the study provides a robust framework for enhancing the medicinal properties of Lonicera japonica, thereby supporting its continued use and development in both traditional and contemporary medical practices. 2 Genetic Basis of Medicinal Properties 2.1 Identification of key medicinal compounds inLonicera japonica Flavonoids are one of the primary active components in Lonicera japonica, contributing significantly to its medicinal properties. The R2R3-MYB transcription factor gene LjaMYB12 has been identified as a key regulator in the biosynthesis of flavonoids. Ectopic expression of LjaMYB12 in Arabidopsis thaliana has been shown to increase flavonoid accumulation, suggesting that this gene plays a crucial role in enhancing the therapeutic effects of flavonoids in L. japonica (Qi et al., 2019). Additionally, tetraploid L. japonica plants have been found to contain higher levels of flavonoids compared to their diploid counterparts, indicating that polyploidy may also influence flavonoid biosynthesis (Wang et al., 2020). Phenolic acids, such as chlorogenic acid, are another important group of bioactive compounds in Lonicera japonica. These compounds are known for their antioxidant properties, which contribute to the plant's medicinal efficacy. Comparative transcriptomic analyses have revealed that tetraploid L. japonica plants exhibit higher levels of phenolic acids than diploid plants, suggesting that genetic factors play a significant role in the biosynthesis of these compounds (Wang et al., 2020). Furthermore, phenolic acids have been shown to reduce oxidative damage by enhancing antioxidant enzyme activity, particularly under stress conditions such as salt stress (Cai et al., 2021). 2.2 Genetic diversity and its role in enhancing medicinal properties Genetic variation within wild populations of Lonicera japonica is crucial for the plant’s adaptability and the diversity of its medicinal compounds. Transcriptomic analyses have identified significant differences in gene expression profiles between different varieties of L. japonica, which may explain the variability in medicinal efficacy (Yuan et al., 2012). This genetic diversity is crucial for the development of breeding strategies to enhance the medicinal properties of plants. The production of bioactive compounds in Lonicera japonica is closely linked to its genetic diversity. Studies have shown that tetraploid plants, which possess greater genetic variation, produce higher levels of key medicinal compounds such as flavonoids and phenolic acids compared to diploid plants (Wang et al., 2020). This suggests that increasing genetic diversity through breeding or polyploidy can enhance the production of bioactive compounds, thereby improving the medicinal quality of L. japonica. 2.3 Molecular markers associated with medicinal traits The identification and development of molecular markers associated with the biosynthesis of key medicinal compounds are essential for marker-assisted selection (MAS) in breeding programs. Transcriptomic studies have provided valuable insights into the genes and metabolic pathways involved in the production of flavonoids and phenolic acids in Lonicera japonica (Yuan et al., 2012; Wang et al., 2020). These findings can be used to develop molecular markers that can facilitate the selection of plants with enhanced medicinal properties. Marker-assisted selection (MAS) is a powerful tool for improving the medicinal properties of Lonicera japonica. By using molecular markers linked to the biosynthesis of key compounds, breeders can efficiently select plants with desirable traits. The application of MAS can accelerate the development of new varieties with higher levels of bioactive compounds, thereby enhancing the overall medicinal value of L. japonica (Yuan et al., 2012; Wang et al., 2020).
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