The Involvement of microRNAs in Plant Lignan Biosynthesis—Current View

Abstract

Lignans, as secondary metabolites synthesized within a phenylpropanoid pathway, play various roles in plants, including their involvement in growth and plant defense processes. The health and nutritional benefits of lignans are unquestionable, and many studies have been devoted to these attributes. Although the regulatory role of miRNAs in the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites has been widely reported, there is no systematic review available on the miRNA-based regulatory mechanism of lignans biosynthesis. However, the genetic background of lignan biosynthesis in plants is well characterized. We attempted to put together a regulatory mosaic based on current knowledge describing miRNA-mediated regulation of genes, enzymes, or transcription factors involved in this biosynthesis process. At the same time, we would like to underline the fact that further research is necessary to improve our understanding of the miRNAs regulating plant lignan biosynthesis by exploitation of current approaches for functional identification of miRNAs.

Phytochemical and Gene Network Analysis Elucidating the Key Genes Involved in the Biosynthesis of Gomisin J in Schisandra sphenanthera

“…This highlights the intricate network of transcriptional regulation in lignan biosynthesis. Additionally, the involvement of microRNAs in regulating genes, enzymes, or transcription factors in lignan biosynthesis points to a complex post-transcriptional regulatory layer [42]. In our study, the identification of transcription factors such as NAC, bZIP, AP2, Myb, HLH, and WRKY within the tan module of the WGCNA analysis suggests their significant role in regulating the expression of cytochrome P450 enzymes and other genes involved in lignan biosynthesis (Table 2).…”

Prediction of MicroRNAs Involved in Lignan and Cyanogenic Glycosides Biosynthesis of Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.)

“…In both metabolic pathways were identi ed 6 microRNA families (miR159, miR160, miR171, miR319, miR396, miR5219). Our previous research pointed to microRNAs involved in the biosynthesis of ax lignans as products of phenylpropanoid pathway (Ražná et al 2022). For the cyanogenic glycosides we have not found any research about involved microRNAs.…”

Transcriptomic Insights and Cytochrome P450 Gene Analysis in Kadsura coccinea for Lignan Biosynthesis

“…Recent advancements in understanding lignan biosynthesis have opened new avenues for metabolic engineering to enhance lignan production, as discussed by Satake et al [ 22 ]. The role of microRNAs in regulating lignan biosynthesis, explored by Ražná et al [ 23 ], suggests a complex regulatory network at the molecular level. Behr et al [ 19 ] provided insight into the molecular regulation of monolignol-derived products in hemp, indicating the involvement of dirigent and dirigent-like proteins.…”

“…Satake et al [ 22 ] have discussed the potential of metabolic engineering in enhancing lignan production, emphasizing the criticality of a thorough understanding of lignan biosynthetic pathways for efficient production. Ražná et al [ 23 ] explored the role of microRNAs in the regulation of lignan biosynthesis, suggesting a complex and intricate regulatory network at the molecular level. These studies in the field have significantly deepened our understanding of lignan biosynthesis.…”