From traditional materia medica to modern drugs: a review of the chemistry, pharmacology, and exploitation of the genus Paeonia

As a crucial medicinal group in Paeoniaceae, Paeonia plants are rich in bioactive monoterpenoids and phenolic compounds (e.g., paeoniflorin, paeonol, and flavonoids) in their roots, flowers, and other parts. They serve as core medicinal resources in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for nourishing blood, activating blood circulation, alleviating inflammation, and relieving pain. In recent years, in-depth studies have clearly elucidated the molecular mechanisms of these bioactive components. With breakthroughs in whole-genome sequencing, transcriptomics, and metabolomics technologies, over 100 secondary metabolites in Paeonia plants has been accurately identified, and multiple pharmacological mechanisms have been analyzed. This review systematically summarizes the current status of Paeonia plants in terms of plant resources, the exploration of bioactive components, analysis of the pharmacological mechanisms, and development/utilization. Combined with the cutting-edge progress in multi-omics technologies and synthetic biology, this review indicates the key directions of Paeonia in innovative drug research and development, aiming to provide a theoretical reference and technical support for the in-depth development of this group of medicinal plants.