Biotechnological approaches for in vitro propagation, conservation and secondary metabolites production in Bulbophyllum, an endangered orchid genus: a review

Bulbophyllum represents the largest genus in the family Orchidaceae. The orchid species of this genus are widely used in the traditional medicine systems in different Asian countries such as China, India, Indonesia and Thailand. Studies on the secondary metabolites of Bulbophyllum have revealed the presence of important phytochemicals such as phenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, triterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, steroids and glycosides. Some species of Bulbophyllum are reported to be of horticultural importance for their unique flowers. Habitat destruction and unsustainable utilization of different species of Bulbophyllum have led to a decline in the natural populations. The present review provides insights into the phytochemistry and ethnomedicinal uses of different species of Bulbophyllum, and highlights the biotechnological approaches developed for its conservation and sustainable utilization. Overall, the details provided in the present review can potentially be used for genome editing and biotechnological advances to develop plants with improved traits, which will be essential for the judicious utilization of the Bulbophyllum species so as to conserve and save the populations in the wild.