ARCHIVES
VOL. 11, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Ecophysiological, molecular, and metabolomic adaptations of Coptis teeta Wall. to abiotic stress in the Eastern Himalayas: A comprehensive synthesis for conservation physiology
Authors
Manabendra Nath, Dip Kumar Bhattacharjya
Abstract
The Eastern Himalayas
constitute a globally significant biodiversity hotspot that harbors the narrow
endemic medicinal plant Coptis teeta Wall. (Ranunculaceae), locally
known as Mishmi Tita. This critically endangered species represents a
unique convergence of evolutionary antiquity, ecological specialization, and
pharmacological importance due to its high accumulation of isoquinoline
alkaloids, particularly berberine. However, accelerating climate change,
habitat fragmentation, and overexploitation increasingly threaten its survival.
This manuscript synthesizes current knowledge on the ecophysiology, molecular
stress responses, secondary metabolism, and plant-microbe interactions of C.
teeta. Evidence from physiological measurements and transcriptomic analyses
indicates that abiotic stress induces strong antioxidant and cellular
protection responses, often at the expense of alkaloid biosynthesis, revealing
a fundamental trade-off between stress tolerance and medicinal quality.
Adopting a holobiont framework, we highlight the crucial role of rhizospheric
and endophytic microbes in modulating stress signaling, nutrient acquisition,
and secondary metabolism. Finally, we propose an integrative conservation
physiology strategy combining genomic insights, microbiome engineering, and
niche-mimicking agrotechnology to ensure the long-term persistence and
pharmacological integrity of C. teeta under Anthropocene pressures.
Download
Pages:282-291
How to cite this article:
Manabendra Nath, Dip Kumar Bhattacharjya "Ecophysiological, molecular, and metabolomic adaptations of <i>Coptis teeta</i> Wall. to abiotic stress in the Eastern Himalayas: A comprehensive synthesis for conservation physiology". International Journal of Botany Studies, Vol 11, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 282-291
Download Author Certificate
Please enter the email address corresponding to this article submission to download your certificate.