Regulation of important natural products biosynthesis by WRKY transcription factors in plants

Secondary metabolites can be categorized into three major classes-terpenoids, phenolic compounds, and nitrogen-containing compounds-based on their structural characteristics and biosynthetic pathways, and further subdivided into numerous subclasses. We review in detail the research progressregardingthe regulatory roles of WRKY TFs in plant secondary metabolitebiosynthesis and summarize more than 40 major related species. Additionally, we have presented the concepts of action modes of WRKY TFs involved in metabolic pathways, including direct regulation, indirect regulation, co-regulation, and self-regulation. It is helpful for others to investigate the molecular mechanisms of TF-mediated regulation. Furthermore, regarding future research prospects, we believe that research in this area lays the foundation for increasing the yield of important plant-derived natural products by molecular breeding, generating significant economic and social benefits.