Recent progress and ongoing challenges in Rhizoma atractylodis research: biogeography, biosynthesis, quality formation and control

Rhizoma atractylodis, including Atractylodes lancea and Atractylodes chinensis, is widely utilized worldwide as a Chinese meteria medica (CMM) due to its rich content of various sesquiterpenoids and other medicinal components. Benefiting from the rapid and ongoing advancements in analytical technologies, significant strides have been achieved in advancing the analysis of Rhizoma atractylodis towards a more systematic, comprehensive, personalized, and intelligent approach. In this review, we highlight the progress made in the biogeography, biosynthesis, quality formation, and control of Rhizoma atractylodis over the past decade. Special attention is given to the incorporation of advanced genetics tools, modern omics technology, and chemometric methods that facilitate the accurate utilization of Rhizoma atractylodis. The elucidation of biosynthetic pathways, the formation of quality, and the control of active components continue to pose challenges in the study of Rhizoma atractylodis. Additionally, this review presents novel directions and opportunities aimed at enhancing ongoing research efforts.