Integrated Omic Analyses Reveal Module Networks Regulating Growth and Bioactive Component Synthesis of Sophora...

Area of Science:

• Plant Biology
• Biochemistry
• Pharmacognosy

Background:

• Sophora tonkinensis is a medicinal plant native to calcium-rich karst regions.
• Calcium's role in regulating plant growth and secondary metabolite biosynthesis is critical.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of varying calcium concentrations on Sophora tonkinensis tissue culture seedlings.
• To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying calcium-mediated regulation of growth and bioactive compound synthesis.

Main Methods:

• Tissue culture of S. tonkinensis exposed to a gradient of calcium concentrations.
• Analysis of root growth parameters (root dry weight, root length).
• Quantification of bioactive compounds (matrine, oxymatrine, trifolirhizin, maackiain).
• Integrated transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic analyses.

Main Results:

• Moderate calcium (2.99 mmol·L⁻¹) enhanced root development and increased matrine/oxymatrine content.
• High calcium (5.98 mmol·L⁻¹) inhibited root growth but increased trifolirhizin/maackiain accumulation.
• Calcium regulates growth and metabolism via phytohormone, plant immunity, MAPK, and phospholipid signaling pathways.

Conclusions:

• Calcium acts as a systemic regulator in S. tonkinensis, influencing growth and specialized metabolism.
• Identified signaling pathways provide targets for optimizing cultivation for enhanced bioactive compound yield.
• Understanding calcium's role is crucial for sustainable production of valuable medicinal compounds.