Integrative analyses of the transcriptome and metabolome of Huzhang (Pinellia pedatisecta Schott) uncover the molecular genetic basis of its medicinal properties

BACKGROUND: Pinellia pedatisecta (Huzhang) is a traditional Chinese herb with a long medicinal history. Many metabolites with pharmacological activities are known to be present in the tissues of P. pedatisecta. However, the molecular basis of the biosynthesis of its pharmaceutical compounds is still unclear, which limits further studies on this valuable resource. RESULTS: Based on untargeted metabolomic data, 640 metabolites were identified in leaves, stems, and tubers of P. pedatisecta, including 137 lipids, 107 organic acids and their derivatives, 88 phenylpropanoids and polyketides, and 7 alkaloids. Integrative analysis of the transcriptome and metabolome revealed several genes and metabolites related to the biosynthesis of amino acids, pyridine nucleotides, flavonoids, and polysaccharides. Additionally, some of these genes were found to be members of expanding gene families, confirming that the accumulation of corresponding metabolites in P. pedatisecta is regulated by the biosynthetic genes in this plant. CONCLUSIONS: Our present study provides valuable information on the genetic and medicinal properties of the P. pedatisecta herb, which will be significant for future utilization.