Effects of Mineral Nutrients on Physiological and Biochemical Processes Related to Secondary Metabolites Production in Medicinal Herbs

摘要

Although biosynthesis of plant metabolites (e.g. alkaloids, terpenoids, phenolic compounds, etc.) is primarily controlled genetically, environmental factors such as stresses and nutrient elements affect the production of metabolites in plants. Many biological activities have been ascribed to these metabolites. In addition to their therapeutic effects, they play a role as chemical defense agents against microorganisms and herbivores. Therapeutic effects of medicinal plants are associated with their chemical peculiarities. Chemical features of these plants serve as an integral determinant of their species specificity and pharmacological properties and facilitate their wide use in medical practice and other uses. The relationship between the synthesisof physiologically active substances and accumulation of elements is mediated by several levels of molecular regulation. There is general agreement that various mineral nutrients increase the growth of individual plants and, consequently, enhance the total plant biomass yield. However, the effects of certain macro- and micro-nutrients on the production of secondary metabolites are also modulated by environmental conditions and depend on plant species. Incorporation of one or more of the trace elements could increase or decrease the production of secondary metabolites depending on the plant species as well as on the concentrations of these elements. The effect of the interaction of certain nutrients on the production of secondary metabolites in herbs isdiscussed in the present review as well.