# Endophytic fungi and their secondary metabolites in Qin medicine plants: a comprehensive review of diversity, function, and application

## TL;DR

This paper reviews endophytic fungi in Qin medicinal plants, focusing on their diversity, role in plant growth, and potential for bioactive compounds.

## Contribution

This is the first comprehensive review of endophytic fungi in Qin medicinal plants, highlighting their potential for plant growth and bioactive metabolites.

## Key findings

- Endophytic fungi enhance plant resistance and bioactive compound concentration in Qin medicinal plants.
- The review identifies diverse endophytic fungi with novel secondary metabolites.
- Potential applications of these fungi in promoting plant growth are explored.

## Abstract

Qin medicine represents the premier local traditional Chinese medicinal herbs in Shaanxi province (China) and its neighboring areas. Endophytic fungi, an essential element of the internal ecosystem of medicinal plants, have attracted considerable attention for their roles in enhancing plant resistance to pests and diseases, increasing the concentration of bioactive compounds, and stimulating plant growth and development. This paper presents the first comprehensive review of endophytic fungi in Qin medicinal plants, summarizing their diversity, effects on plant growth and medicinal quality, as well as novelty and bioactivity of their secondary metabolites. It also highlights their potential applications in promoting plant growth. Furthermore, this study explores the current opportunities and challenges in the research of endophytic fungi within Qin medicinal plants, with the objective of offering a unique perspective for the advancement and development of Qin medicinal plants.