Modern comprehensive metabolomic profiling of pollen using various analytical techniques - dataset

Abstract of paper to which these data are related:

Pollen is a cornerstone of life for plants. Its durability, adaptability, and complex design are the key factors to successful plant reproduction, genetic diversity, and the maintenance of ecosystems. Detailed study of its chemical composition is important for understanding the mechanism of pollen-pollinator interaction, pollination processes and allergic reactions. In this study, a multimodal approach involving Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR), direct mass spectrometry with atmospheric solids analysis probe (ASAP), matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS) was applied for metabolite profiling. ATR-FTIR provided an initial overview of present metabolite classes. Phenylpropanoid, lipidic and carbohydrate structures were revealed. Hydrophobic outer layer of pollen was characterized in detail by ASAP-MS profiling and esters, phytosterols and terpenoids were observed. Diacyl- and triacylglycerols and carbohydrate structures were identified in MALDI-MS spectra. MALDI-MS imaging of lipids proved to be helpful during microscopic characterization of pollen species in their mixture. Polyphenol profiling and quantification of important secondary metabolites were done by UHPLC-MS in context with pollen coloration and their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Obtained results revealed significant chemical differences among Magnoliophyta and Pinophyta pollen. Additionally, some variations within Magnoliophyta species were observed. The obtained metabolomics data are utilizable for pollen differentiation in taxonomic scale and provide valuable information in relation to pollen interactions during reproduction and its related applications.