Chromosomal level genome of Ilex asprella and insight into antiviral metabolite pathway

<i>Ilex</i> is a monogeneric plant group in the family Aquifoliaceae. In <i>Lingnan</i> area of China, <i>Ilex asprella</i> is commonly used as a major component of cooling beverages. According to the records of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), root of <i>I. asprella </i>was effective in treating lung infections and relieving organ inflammations. The pharmacological activities of <i>I. asprella </i>have been proved by biochemical research in recent years. With reference to the <i>in vivo</i> studies, ethanolic extract of <i>I.</i> <i>asprella </i>can significantly decrease the viral load of influenza A virus. Lung index, which is an indicator of lung edema, was also massively reduced. By using the column chromatography, the main anti-influenza compound Asprellcosides B, which is an ursane type triterpenoid saponin, was discovered. In fact, triterpenoid saponin is one of the most common biological active chemical in <i>I.</i> <i>asprella.</i> Other than treating influenza virus, triterpenoid Asprellanoside A were also showing anti-herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) activity. Anti-cancer and anti-complement triterpenoids have also been found in <i>I. asprella</i>.