Biotechnological intervention in genetic improvement and regulation of secondary metabolites production in Ocimum sanctum L

Abstract

Ocimum sanctum L. is the most significant wellspring of medications utilized in the pharmaceutical industries and in the field of medicine. O. sanctum has a distinctive combination of pharmacological actions that support resilience and wellbeing. The secondary metabolites of O. sanctum show beneficial effects in the treatment of various diseases. This plant contains anti-oxidant properties and high amount of phenolic compounds which protect the body from toxin-induced damage. Due to its very high demand and less yield of the pharmaceutical content or secondary metabolites, there has been a persistent need to improve the productivity of the plant by using modern technology. There are various biotechnological methodologies which are utilized for the genetic improvement of this therapeutic plants viz micropropagation, direct or indirect in vitro regeneration, secondary metabolite enhancement by different types of elicitors, somatic embryogenesis and genetic transformation by various gene transfer approaches like Agrobacterium tumefiaciens, particle bombardment, etc. Genetic engineering for improvement of production of secondary metabolite and its biosynthesis pathways by overexpressing vital genes involved in the metabolite biosynthesis were reviewed. Omics techniques were also studied for understanding the genome structure, candidate genes and candidate proteins involved in secondary metabolites production. Overall, this review paper discusses the application of biotechnological techniques for enhancement of secondary metabolites production in O. sanctum.