An initial non-targeted analysis of the peanut seed metabolome

Authors: Dean, Lisa; KLEVORN, CLAIRE - North Carolina State University; Lamb, Marshall

Submitted to: American Peanut Research and Education Society Abstracts
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 4/12/2016
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary: Many small molecular weight compounds are generated by peanuts as part of their formation and growth. This study identified 383 of these compounds using high performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. The two most common market types, runners and virginias were compared. There were 52 compounds that were not found in both types. These compounds were parts of the protein, fat and carbohydrate pathways in the seeds. From this information, further studies will be able to identify how biochemical pathways differ to produce different types of peanuts and if they can be controlled by the plant genetics.

Technical Abstract: There are likely a large number of compounds that constitute the peanut seed metabolome that have yet to be elucidated. Although the proximate composition and nutrients such as vitamins and minerals are well known, the composition of many other small molecule metabolites present have not been systematically studied. This report describes the findings of a non-targeted approach using several analytical platforms to generate metabolomic profiles of raw and roasted runner-type peanuts (n=15). Only blanched samples were analyzed to limit the focus to the metabolites present only in the seeds themselves. A total of 383 metabolites were identified in the samples, of which 69 were found at higher levels in the raw samples and 28 were found to be unique to the roasted samples. The metabolites found belong for the most part to the amino acid, lipid, and carbohydrate super pathways and include oxylipins, aromatic amino acids, flavonoids, gamma-glutamyl amino acids, benzenoid and purine metabolism products. As part of a much larger and ongoing study, this information contributes to a better understanding of the chemical composition of peanut seeds that could impact growth and health of the peanut plant and influence the effects of peanut consumption on human and animal health and well-being.