Metabolo-transcriptomics analyses reveal alfalfa adaptation to combined saline-alkali and low-temperature stress in the field

Metabolomics analysis revealed specific accumulation of amino acids, organic acids, carbohydrates, fatty acids and flavonoids in ZD compared with that in BM. The core differential metabolites associated with ZD stress resistance included isoleucine, fumaric acid, raffinose and isovitexin. Integrated metabolomics and transcriptomics analysis highlighted flavonoid, carbohydrate, glutathione and salicylic acid biosynthesis as key pathways in alfalfa stress response.