Multi-omics analysis reveals the potential role of MbDDC in tissue-specific alkaloid biosynthesis and distribution in Meconopsis betonicifolia

This study investigates tissue-specific alkaloid biosynthesis in Meconopsis betonicifolia, an endemic plant of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau known for its bioactive isoquinoline alkaloids. Using integrated metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses of roots, stems, leaves, and flowers, we identified key intermediates (codeinone and salutaridine) and eleven correlated DEGs. Functional characterization of the rate-limiting enzyme MbDDC-3 revealed its significant role in alkaloid accumulation, confirmed by heterologous overexpression in Nicotiana tabacum. A unique non-classical NLS and high-altitude adaptive residues were also identified in MbDDC-3, providing insights for future metabolic engineering of medicinal alkaloids.