Functional Perspectives of Plant Secondary Metabolites

Plants naturally produce a variety of different chemicals which are used in their growth and development. Primary metabolites provide the supplies required for processes, such as photosynthesis, translocation and respiration. Secondary metabolites have important functions that increase their survival and fecundity (reproductive ability). They also have a role in repelling pests and pathogens, acting as signals for symbiosis between plants and microbes, and modifying microbial communities associated with hosts. This book discusses the significance, role, production, regulation, identification, contributions and usefulness of secondary metabolites in medicinal plants for tackling diseases and improving public health. It addresses: · The roles of secondary metabolites in plant defence, interactions with the environment, and ecological balance · The use of secondary metabolites as taxonomic markers for plant identification and classification. · The potential and effectiveness of secondary metabolites in treating and preventing human diseases. · How interactions with pests, pathogens, and other organisms influence the production of secondary metabolites. · The genetic and epigenetic mechanisms controlling the synthesis of secondary metabolites.