Comparative analysis of primary and secondary metabolites in wheat seedlings (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivated under varying photosynthetic photon flux densities and growth periods.

BACKGROUND

To elucidate the impact of environmental factors on the nutritional quality of metabolites in wheat seedlings, both primary and secondary metabolites must be comprehensively examined. We thus conducted a comparative analysis of these metabolites in wheat seedlings grown under various photosynthetic photon flux densities (PPFD) (200, 400 and 800 μmol m s) and growth periods (5, 7, 9, 11, 13 and 15 days) to help optimize the nutritional quality of seedlings.

RESULTS

In total, 74 metabolites were characterized, including 51 primary metabolites and 23 secondary metabolites. Multivariate analyses confirmed changes in flavonoids, which are known antioxidants, under the various PPFD conditions. Wheat seedlings grown at a PPFD of 400 μmol m s for more than 9 days exhibited a higher flavonoid content than those grown under the other conditions. Furthermore, an increase in cysteine and methionine metabolism, sugar metabolism, and carotenoid and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis was observed.

CONCLUSION

A PPFD of 400 μmol m s increases sugar metabolism in wheat seedlings by promoting anabolism through photosynthesis. Furthermore, the accumulation of sugars, the primary raw materials for secondary metabolites, affects flavonoid biosynthesis. These results suggest that wheat seedlings undergo metabolic reprogramming in response to light intensity, enabling adaptive responses. Our study thus confirmed the relationships between primary and secondary metabolites in wheat seedlings under various PPFD conditions. Furthermore, the insights gained enhance our understanding of the influence of light intensity and duration on metabolite accumulation, which is vital for optimizing agricultural practices. © 2025 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.