Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Study of the Biosynthetic Pathways of Bioactive Components in Amomum tsaoko Fruits

Amomum tsaoko is an important medicinal and edible plant that not only serves as traditional Chinese medicine with remarkable efficacy and high nutritional value in treating various diseases, but also functions as a crucial food additive and spice for odor removal and taste enhancement. Terpenoids and curcuminoids compounds are the main bioactive ingredients of A. tsaoko. This study employed transcriptome sequencing and metabolomic analysis of A. tsaoko at five different developmental stages to assess the accumulation patterns of terpenoids and curcuminoids compounds, and explored the key genes and transcription factors involved in their synthesis pathways. This study offers a theoretical foundation for further research into the biosynthesis of active components in A. tsaoko, establishing a basis for in-depth investigations into the mechanisms underlying its medicinal quality formation, while also providing guidance for the utilization of its aromatic components and natural pigments.