# Widely targeted metabolomics of different tissues in Rubus corchorifolius

## TL;DR

This study uses targeted metabolomics to compare the chemical profiles of leaf, stem, and flower tissues in the medicinal plant Rubus corchorifolius.

## Contribution

The study provides the first comprehensive metabolic characterization of different tissues in R. corchorifolius using widely targeted metabolomics.

## Key findings

- 1,946 metabolites were identified across leaf, stem, and flower tissues.
- Flowers showed the most distinct metabolic profile, particularly in flavonoid biosynthesis.
- Leaves were characterized by chlorophyll metabolism, while phenolic acids varied across tissues.

## Abstract

Rubus corchorifolius, a medicinal plant of the Rosaceae family, is known for its diverse bioactive compounds. This study employs widely targeted metabolomics to investigate the metabolic profiles of leaf, stem, and flower tissue from R. corchorifolius. Using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry, we identified 1,946 metabolites across the three tissue types. Multivariate statistical analyses revealed distinct metabolic signatures for each tissue, with flowers showing the most distinctive profile. Differential accumulation of flavonoids, phenolic acids, and primary metabolites reflected the specialised functions of each tissue type. Pathway enrichment analysis highlighted tissue-specific metabolic activities, including flavonoid biosynthesis in flowers and chlorophyll metabolism in leaves. This comprehensive metabolic characterisation provides a foundation for further investigations into the biosynthetic pathways and physiological functions of bioactive compounds in R. corchorifolius, potentially guiding future applications in medicine and agriculture.