Emerging Roles of Noncoding RNA for Biosynthesis of Secondary Metabolites in Ethnomedicinal Plants

Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) emerge as pivotal control in diverse cellular processes, with more than 90% of genomic DNA transcribed into noncoding RNA. This includes housekeeping ncRNAs (e.g., tRNAs, rRNAs) and regulatory ncRNAs (e.g., lncRNAs, miRNAs). In plants, these molecules play crucial roles in primary and secondary metabolite synthesis, influencing essential processes in growth and responses to environmental conditions. The secondary metabolites biosynthesis in plants is reviewed, focusing on compounds such as phenols, terpenes, and nitrogenous compounds. The intricate interplay between primary and secondary metabolites is discussed, shedding light on the regulatory roles of ncRNAs in these processes. Specifically, miRNAs and lncRNAs are highlighted as key players in the synthesis of alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids, with examples from various plant species. The knowledge about the regulatory mechanisms of ncRNAs in secondary metabolite synthesis provides valuable insights for improving plant productivity, stress resilience, and the production of bioactive compounds.