Integrative metabolome and transcriptome analyses reveal the differences in flavonoid and terpenoid synthesis between Glycyrrhiza uralensis (licorice) leaves and roots.

ABSTRACT: Licorice from Glycyrrhiza uralensis roots is used in foods and medicines. Although we are aware that licorice roots and leaves have distinct material compositions, the specific reasons for these differences remain unknown. Comparison of the metabolomes and transcriptomes between the leaves and roots revealed flavonoids and triterpenoid saponins were significantly different. Isoflavones were enriched in roots because of upregulation of genes encoding chalcone isomerase and flavone synthase, which are involved in isoflavone synthesis. Six triterpenoid saponins were significantly enriched only in the roots. The leaves did not accumulate glycyrrhetinic acid because of low expression levels of genes involved in its synthesis. A gene encoding a UDP glycosyltransferase, which likely cataly

SUBMITTER: Yu K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10767105 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature