Radish Microgreen Metabolomic Profile in Response to Zinc Biofortification and Light Intensity

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Plant Physiology
• Nutritional Biochemistry

Background:

• Zinc deficiency is a global health concern, necessitating strategies like crop biofortification.
• Microgreens are nutrient-dense and suitable for zinc enrichment through fertigation.
• The combined effects of zinc and light on microgreen metabolism are not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the metabolic impact of varying zinc and light intensities on radish microgreens.
• To understand how these factors influence metabolite biosynthesis and nutritional value.
• To identify optimal conditions for producing zinc-biofortified microgreens.

Main Methods:

• Radish microgreens were grown with different zinc concentrations (0-15 mg/L) and light intensities (100-400 μmol/m²s).
• Targeted metabolomics was employed to analyze the metabolic profiles.
• Key metabolic pathways and compounds were quantified.

Main Results:

• High light intensity elevated flavonoids and phenolic acids, indicating antioxidant responses, but decreased amino acids and glucosinolates.
• Zinc enrichment modulated phenylpropanoid, nitrogen, and energy metabolism.
• Specific flavonoids, phenolic acids, essential amino acids, and ATP levels increased with zinc enrichment.

Conclusions:

• Zinc and light intensity significantly influence the metabolic profile of radish microgreens.
• Combined optimization can enhance antioxidant compounds and essential nutrients.
• This research supports the development of nutrient-rich, biofortified microgreens for functional food applications.