Harnessing Nature's Pharmacy: Biotechnology Advances in Medicinal Plant Research
Mohankumar G P
Division of Flower and Medicinal Crops, Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru, India.
Shalini R M *
Division of Flower and medicinal crops, ICAR-IIHR, Banglore, India.
Shwetha Desai
Department of Plantation, Spices, Medicinal and Aromatic crops, University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot, India.
Ayesha Siddiqua
Department of Fruit Sciences, Sri Krishnadevaraya College of Horticultural Sciences, Ananthapuramu, Andhra Pradesh (Affiliated to Dr.YSR Horticultural University, West Godavari, VR Gudem, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Sinheiba Ngangbam
Department of Genetics and Genomics, Magyar Agrár- és Élettudományi Egyetem (MATE), Gödöllő - 2100, Hungary.
Satish Takhellambam
Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, J and K -190017, India.
Arshad Khayum
Department of Postharvest Management, College of Horticulture, Mudigere-577132, University: KSNUAHS, Shivamogga-577412, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The integration of biotechnology into medicinal plant research has revolutionized the pharmaceutical industry, offering unprecedented opportunities for the development of novel therapeutics and healthcare solutions. By tapping into the vast biochemical diversity of plants, scientists have unlocked a treasure trove of potential drug candidates, many of which have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Biotechnological tools such as genetic engineering, tissue culture, metabolomics, and bioinformatics have enabled the precise manipulation and optimization of plant-derived compounds, leading to the production of high-value pharmaceuticals with enhanced efficacy and safety profiles. Moreover, biotechnology facilitates sustainable practices by enabling the cultivation of medicinal plants under controlled conditions, reducing reliance on wild harvesting and alleviating pressure on endangered species. As our understanding of plant biology continues to deepen, the synergy between biotechnology and medicinal plant research holds tremendous promise for addressing global health challenges and improving patient outcomes.
Keywords: Biotechnology, medicinal, genetic engineering, controlled