Plantago species are emerging model organisms for functional genomics and stress biology.

Abstract

Key message: Species in the Plantago genus are emerging model organisms to multiple research disciplines. The genus Plantago has long been recognized for its significance in various research fields, yet it remains underutilized as a model organism in scientific studies. Several Plantago species possess unique traits, including easily accessible vascular tissues, medicinal properties, gynodieocity, and remarkable adaptability to diverse environmental conditions. These characteristics position Plantago as a promising model for research in areas such as plant vascular biology, stress physiology, reproductive biology, ecology, and medicinal biochemistry. Recent advancements, including the development of genetic transformation systems, the availability of sequenced genomes, and the application of CRISPR-Cas9 technology, have significantly enhanced the capability of using Plantago as a model system. This review discusses the research potential of Plantago species, highlighting key historical discoveries and recent breakthroughs that demonstrate their value across multiple scientific disciplines.