Metabolomics is one of the “omics” sciences that can reveal the metabolic phenotype of organisms. This capability makes it a valuable tool for plant investigation, as plants present a vast chemical diversity. From the analytical point of view, two main techniques are frequently used in metabolomics and are often complementary: Mass spectrometry (MS) and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Here, we describe NMR and its applications in plant metabolomics. We start by contextualizing the research field to then explore study design, sample collection, sample preparation, NMR data acquisition, and data analysis, showing the key features for achieving quality and relevant results. Within these topics, the most common databases used for plant metabolites identification and assignments are listed, as these help to shorten the laborious task of metabolomics investigation of natural products. Concerning NMR parameters, we discuss the key pulse sequences, recommend acquisition parameters, and examine the data each sequence can provide. Similarly, we delve into data analysis, highlighting the most commonly used chemometric methods and how to achieve high-quality results. Therefore, this review aims to provide a comprehensive guide for NMR-based metabolomics analysis of plants.
6 December 2024 in International Journal of Pharmaceutics
The uvaia is a native Brazilian Atlantic Forest Myrtaceae fruit with a soft pulp, ranging from yellow to orange, with a sweet acidic flavor and sweet fruity aroma. Uvaias present consumption potential, but their physicochemical characteristics are still understudied. In this context, we describe herein the metabolites of uvaia that have been determined by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. We screened 41 accessions and selected 10 accessions based on their diversity of physicochemical attributes, i.e., their fresh mass, height, diameter, yield, seed mass, total soluble solids, and titratable acidity. Twenty-six metabolites were identified, including sugars, acids, and amino acids. The results of this study comprise the most complete report on sugars and acids in uvaias. The relevant metabolites in terms of abundance were the reducing sugars glucose and fructose, as well as malic and citric acids. Furthermore, this study represents the first description of the uvaia amino acid profile and an outline of its metabolic pathways. Uvaia quality attributes differ among accessions, demonstrating high variability, diversity, and several possibilities in different economic areas. Our findings may help in future breeding programs in the selection of plant material for industries such as food and pharmaceuticals.
This overview explores time-domain nuclear magnetic resonance (TD-NMR) relaxometry as a rapid, non-invasive analytical tool for evaluating packaged food products. While traditional invasive methods are often laborious and time-consuming, TD-NMR harnesses the radio-frequency transparency of most packaging materials to enable direct analysis. Furthermore, by utilizing relaxometry and diffusion measurements, this technique provides critical data on fat and water content, compartmentalization, texture, spoilage, and adulteration. In particular, this work outlines the fundamental principles of TD-NMR and highlights its application in dairy, edible oils, sauces, jams, and beverages. Ultimately, as this technology matures for consumer use, TD-NMR stands to significantly enhance food safety, quality, and supply chain transparency by facilitating straightforward, on-site analysis of packaged goods.
The synthesis of silicon carbide has been widely explored to tailor its material properties for specific needs, particularly particle size, polytype distribution, and defect density.