Comparative metabolomic analysis of leaves and kernels in wild type and Zmsps2 mutant

The solanesyl diphosphate synthase gene ZmSPS2 is known to modulate terpenoid metabolism and tocopherol biosynthesis in maize (Zea mays L.), though its system-wide metabolic effects remain poorly understood. In this study, a widely targeted metabolomic analysis revealed significant impacts of the Zmsps2 mutation on metabolic networks in both leaves and kernels at 20 days after pollination (DAP). A total of 2531 metabolites were detected, primarily comprising lipids, organoheterocyclic compounds, and benzenoids. Differential metabolite analysis identified 453 significantly altered metabolites in leaves and 334 in kernels. In leaves, differential metabolites were enriched in four metabolic pathways including zma00051 (Fructose and mannose metabolism), zma00520 (Amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism), zma00941 (Flavonoid biosynthesis), and zma00052 (Galactose metabolism). Four significant pathways were enriched in kernels, including zma02010 (ABC transporters), zma00052 (Galactose metabolism), zma00591 (Linoleic acid metabolism), and zma01230 (Biosynthesis of amino acids). This study demonstrates that the Zmsps2 mutation triggers tissue-specific metabolic alterations: enhancing monosaccharide-driven energy supply in leaves, while promoting accumulation of protective sugars in kernels. These findings provide new insights into the regulation of metabolic profile by the Zmsps2 mutation.