Genetics and Genomics of Chinese Medicinal Plants Epimedium L

Medicinal plants, which have been widely used as natural medicines in China and east Asia for more than 2000 years since the first record in the classical Chinese pharmacopoeia – ‘Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing’. Traditional Chinese medicine, based primarily on plant materials, has also become one of the fastest-growing healthcare choices in the Western world.  Since most of the Chinese medicines are produced using wild plants, a large number of medicinal plant species are endangered or endemic in the wild due to overharvest and habitat deterioration. A genetics and genomics project was initiated to reveal the genetic mechanism of active constituents in Epimedium species, for the sustainable development of Chinese medicines. Dry leaves of Epimedium species have pharmacological effects of promoting sexual behavior, reducing blood pressure, improving anti-inflammation and immunity. First, genetic and phytochemical diversity in natural populations were estimated. Secondly, the genome composition of Epimedium species was characterized comparing with the model species. Thirdly, genes controlling the biosynthesis of flavonoids in E. sagittatum were cloned and gene expression was investigated to identify key genes related to the accumulation of flavonoids. Fourthly, molecular markers (EST-SSRs) were developed for molecular breeding, systematics, population genetics, and construction of genetic map. The cultivation of new cultivars and sustainable utilization of Chinese medicinal plants, Epimedium species, were discussed for better quality control of raw materials used for Chinese medicines and functional foods.