Differential regulatory mechanisms of flavonoid biosynthetic pathways in Black wolfberry (Lycium ruthenicum Murr.) from different regions of the Tarim Basin based on metabolomics -transcriptomics analysis

As a key species in the desert ecosystem of the Tarim Basin, Lycium ruthenicum Murr. (black wolfberry) possesses remarkable medicinal and ecological values. Its fruits are rich in flavonoids, which serve as core bioactive components with prominent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The unique annular landform, distinct hydrothermal differences and soil heterogeneity across the Tarim Basin have led to obvious geographical differentiation in flavonoid accumulation among L. ruthenicum populations from different regions, yet the molecular regulatory mechanisms underlying such variations remain elusive. Taking L. ruthenicumgermplasms from diverse producing areas in the Tarim Basin as research objects, this study adopted an integrated metabolomics-transcriptomics analysis strategy to systematically identify the differential accumulation characteristics of flavonoid metabolites in L. ruthenicum from different regions, clarify the differential expression patterns of key structural genes involved in the flavonoid biosynthetic pathway, and excavate the core transcription factors regulating these genes as well as their interaction networks. This research aims to elucidate the differential regulatory pathways of flavonoid synthesis in L. ruthenicum driven by environmental factors (e.g., light and precipitation), reveal the correlation mechanisms among geographical environments, gene expression and metabolite accumulation, and thereby provide a theoretical basis and technical support for the genetic breeding, standardized cultivation and efficient resource utilization of high-quality L. ruthenicum.