# Valorization of ligustrum species: biosynthesis, metabolic engineering, and pharmacology of bioactive compounds

## TL;DR

This paper reviews the medicinal and economic potential of Ligustrum plants, focusing on their bioactive compounds and sustainable production methods.

## Contribution

The paper proposes an integrated approach combining omics, synthetic biology, and sustainable manufacturing for Ligustrum valorization.

## Key findings

- Ligustrum species contain diverse bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antitumor effects.
- Omics-based analyses and metabolic engineering are key for sustainable production of Ligustrum-derived metabolites.
- The review suggests a framework for whole-plant valorization and germplasm conservation.

## Abstract

The genus Ligustrum (Oleaceae) encompasses woody plants with both medicinal and edible uses, distinguished by a wide range of bioactive compounds, including triterpenoids, phenylethanoid glycosides, flavonoids, and other active constituents. These metabolites demonstrate multi-target pharmacological effects, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor, and anti-osteoporotic activities. In traditional medicine, species like L. lucidum and L. robustum are well-documented for their therapeutic roles in nourishing the liver and kidneys, enhancing vision, darkening hair, and serving as functional tea ingredients. Beyond their medicinal and health-promoting properties, Ligustrum species are also employed as ornamental plants, bioindicators of atmospheric pollution, algicidal agents, and feed additives. Given the increasing global demand and underutilization of Ligustrum resources, there is an urgent need to establish a sustainable supply framework focused on alternative strategies such as metabolic engineering, synthetic biology, and environmentally friendly manufacturing. This review encapsulates recent progress in the exploration of chemical diversity, pharmacological characteristics, omics-based analyses, and biosynthetic research pertaining to Ligustrum. It proposes an integrated methodology that amalgamates multi-omics approaches, synthetic biology, and environmentally sustainable manufacturing processes to advance strategies for whole-plant valorization and germplasm conservation. The objective is to establish a theoretical framework and technical paradigm to facilitate the comprehensive exploitation and sustainable utilization of Ligustrum as a medicinal resource.