The genome of provides the basis for analyzing the synthetic pathway of triterpenoid saponins of Bacopa monnieri
Dammaranes-type triterpenoid saponins are a class of natural compounds, which formed by condensing dammaranes aglycone and glycosides. Ginsenosides are notable for their pharmacological activities such as anticancer, hypoglycemic, and hypolipidemic properties. It is well understood how ginsenosides are synthesized, and many ginsenoside monomers can be synthesized heterologously. However, little is known about the biosynthesis of novel dammaranes triterpenoid saponins, such as bacosides. Bacopa monnieri contains abundant bacosides that have anti-anxiety, antidepressant, and anti-Alzheimer's effects, offering a tremendous potential for developing new drugs due to dammaranes triterpenoid saponins. However, the biosynthetic pathways of bacosides in B. monnieri remain unknown, and the mechanisms underlying the formation of its medicinal qualities is unclear, limiting their development and use. This study lays the foundation for elucidating the biosynthetic pathways of novel dammaranes triterpenoid saponins in B. monnieri as well as for utilizing biosynthesis to produce monomeric compounds with promising physiological activities. Additionally, it provides a scientific basis for understanding the mechanisms underlying the formation of quality attributes and the development and utilization of genetic resources in B. monnieri.