Comparative fatty acid profiling of irradiated canola varieties: insights from GC-MS metabolomics and molecular...

Canola (Brassica napus) is an edible oil consumed in human diets containing a balanced ratio of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids (FAs). Canola oil is rich in bioactive compounds and other FA derivatives, which enhance its therapeutic potential. This study examines the effects of low-dose gamma irradiation on plant growth and modification of FA profiles in canola varieties, including NARC-Sarson, Canola-Super8, Punjab canola, and Sandal canola. On exposure to irradiation, the plants showed a net decrease in plant height, 100-seed weight and pod numbers, with a dose-dependent decrease in growth. The Gy 30 irradiation treatment reduced 100-seed weight by 19% in NARC-Sarson, whereas Gy 20 increase it by 10% in Canola-Super8. Moreover, compared with untreated control, root length, protein content, and oil content increased by 45.7%, 25%, and 48.8%, respectively, across all varieties. Among all treated varieties, Canola-Super8 showed the maximum oleic acid content, which accounts for 60.6%. Linolenic acid decreased by 31.5% in NARC-Sarson, and palmitic acid decreased by 18.75% in Canola-Super8 compared with the control. A total of seventeen FA and lipid derivatives were observed in canola varieties through GC-MS analysis. Linolenic acid displayed the highest affinity (-7.2 kcal mol^-1) toward AKT1 kinase, forming three hydrogen-bonds interactions with target protein. In comparision, Oleic acid showed a slightly lower binding affinity (-6.6 kcal mol^-1) at active site of AKT1 kinase. The results of this study provide a novel approach for optimizing agricultural practices with health-focused outcomes.