Comprehensive analysis of the metabolic nutritional components and exploration of health-promoting small molecules in japonica rice and indica rice seeds

The comprehensive detection of primary metabolites and secondary metabolites in japonica rice (Nipponbare) and indica rice seeds (93-11) were clarified by using a combination of targeted and untargeted metabolomics approaches we created. A total of 246 metabolites were identified, encompassing 4 primary metabolite classes (3 sugars, 6 organic acids, 21 amino acids, 5 lipids) and 3 secondary flavonoid metabolite classes (17 flavones, 2 flavonones, 4 flavonols), as well as various other secondary metabolites. We found that japonica rice contains higher levels of sugars (especially fructose), alanine, flavonols, and luteolin complexes, while indica rice contains higher levels of organic acids, amino acids (excluding alanine), flavanones, and apigenin and its complexes. Exploring and comparing the comprehensive nutritional composition of the two types of rice not only enabled individuals to choose their staple food according to their own physical condition but also provided new insights for the development of health-promoting rice.