Comparative metabolic profile of maize genotypes reveals the tolerance mechanism associated in combined stresses

Abstract

The two maize genotypes CML49 and CML100 were subjected to combined abiotic stresses concurrently (drought and low-N / waterlogging and low-N). The aim of study to reveal the differential response of metabolites of two maize genotypes in combined stress conditions and to understand the tolerance mechanism. Thus leaf and roots metabolites of two genotypes were detected and measured using GC-MS technique. The results of un-targeted metabolites analysis show, the accumulated metabolites of tolerant genotype (CML49) have a uniform pattern in response to combined abiotic stresses. Although most of the metabolites were related to defense, antioxidants, signaling and some metabolites indirectly involved in nitrogen restoration of the maize plant. Alternatively, few metabolites of sensitive genotype (CML100) were regulated in response to defense, while other metabolites were involved in membrane disruption and signaling antagonist also the pattern of metabolite regulation was random in sensitive genotype. Therefore, the present study provides insight into the molecular mechanisms of tolerance of maize plants in combined stresses.