Endophytes from Panax species

Abstract

Medicinal plants from the genus Panax has long been traditionally used to treat various diseases and therefore constitute very important resources for endophytes bioprospecting. Over the past decade (2007–2019) investigations have been conducted to analyse the microbial community inhabiting several species of this genus. We comprehensively summarized in this review available data regarding the diversity and biological activity of microbial species living inside Panax species without causing harm. Our investigation into literature revealed that although the number of studies is limited, an astonishing diversity of bacterial and fungal endophytes inhabiting Panax ginseng Meyer and Panax notoginseng (Burkill) F.H.Chen has already been uncovered. We also found that some of these endophytes can produce some major plant metabolites and also convert some of these major metabolites into minor or new compounds. This study also demonstrated that so far, more than 347 bacteria and 21 fungi have been identified with biocontrol abilities against pathogens of the root-rot disease complex in Panax species. Moreover, the phytochemical investigation of a very limited number of endophytes led to the characterization of more than 80 secondary metabolites, exhibiting antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiacetylcholinesterase, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities. We hope that this review provides the scientific community with useful information regarding the diversity and bioactive potential of endophytes of the Panax genus and motivate scientists to investigate other species of this genus.