Untargeted Metabolomics Reveals Major Patterns of Metabolic Shifts in Potato Seed Tubers during Storage

Abstract

To obtain comprehensive insight into metabolic changes in potato seed tubers during storage and to identify patterns associated with physiological ageing, we analysed tuber metabolite composition using untargeted metabolomics based on gas and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS and LC–MS). During two seasons, seed tubers of four contrasting cultivars (Agria, Festien, Innovator, and Lady Claire) were produced in a single field and after harvest, stored at different temperatures. During storage, the number of detected secondary metabolites increased progressively, particularly at higher temperatures (7–17 ˚C). Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed clear cultivar-specific metabolic profiles, with the starch cultivar Festien distinctly separated from the consumption cultivars, primarily caused by different amino acid composition. PCA further highlighted the impact of cold storage (4 ˚C) on primary metabolism, especially the accumulation of reducing sugars, as well as the combined effects of storage duration and elevated temperature on secondary metabolites, notably glycoalkaloids. Factor analysis (FA) supported these findings, with most metabolites strongly associated with the factor distinguishing cv. Festien from the other cultivars. Additionally, the leading factors captured cultivar-specific patterns and diverse trajectories reflecting the effects of storage duration and temperature. Together, these results provide a comprehensive overview of metabolic dynamics during storage and contribute to understanding the functional roles of metabolites in tuber physiological ageing.

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