# Metabolomic Profiling of Native Yucatan Maizes (Zea mays L.): A Strategy for Harnessing Biodiversity

## TL;DR

This study explores the unique chemical makeup of native Yucatan maize varieties, focusing on their rich phenolic and antioxidant content.

## Contribution

The study introduces a metabolomic strategy to harness biodiversity in native Yucatan maize, identifying distinct profiles of bioactive compounds.

## Key findings

- Purple maize populations showed higher total phenolic content and antioxidant activity compared to red maize.
- Metabolomic profiling identified 512 molecular entities, with anthocyanins dominating in purple maize and flavonoids in red maize.
- Multivariate analyses revealed distinct metabolic profiles among the maize populations studied.

## Abstract

Maize (Zea mays L.) is
a globally
significant crop. In the Yucatan Peninsula, native races such as Tuxpeo,
Dzit Bacal, and Nal Tel exhibit unique genetic diversity and are rich
in phenolic compounds. This study characterized the bioactive composition
of these maizes, focusing on phenolic and antioxidant activity. From
the 100 maize populations collected, 24 were selected based on intense
coloration (13 purple (P) and 11 red (R)). Analyses included colorimetry,
total soluble phenols (TSP), antioxidant capacity (FRAP and DPPH),
and high-performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry
(HPLC-QTOF-MS) for metabolomic profiling. Results revealed significant
differences in phenolic content and antioxidant activity among populations,
with the Chac chob 6 (R) population showing the highest TSP (1.45
mg g–1) and FRAP (3.17 mg g–1)
values. Metabolomics identified 512 molecular entities with anthocyanins
dominating in purple maize and other flavonoids in red maize. Multivariate
analyses revealed distinct metabolic profiles among the populations.