LC-MS metabolomics analysis of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni leaves cultivated in Malaysia in relation to different developmental stages

Introduction Stevia is known for its sweet taste, attributed to the presence of steviol glycosides. Although reports on the dynamic changes of steviol glycosides during development of stevia are available, the data are mainly focused on stevioside and rebaudioside A. Information concerning the comprehensive metabolite profile of stevia in relation to different developmental stages is still lacking. Objective This study investigated the metabolite changes along the developmental stages of a local stevia cultivar. Methodology Stevia leaves were harvested at 4 different developmental stages (early vegetative, late vegetative, budding, and flowering). Samples were then subjected to LC-MS metabolomics analysis to determine the metabolite variations. Results A total of 55 metabolites, comprising phenolic acids, flavonoids, and terpenoids were identified by MS/MS analysis of the stevia leaf extracts, revealing a metabolite profile which was comparatively similar with those of cultivars grown in other countries. PLS-DA differentiated the early vegetative stage stevia leaf samples from those of the later stages by higher content of phenolic acids. The leaf metabolomes of the later 3 stages (late vegetative, budding, and flowering) were collectively richer in flavonoids. Meanwhile, the content of steviol glycosides is highest during the late vegetative and budding stages. Conclusion The present study provided, for the first time, a general overview of the metabolite variations with regard to the different developmental stages of stevia. The information may facilitate decision making of suitable harvesting times for higher yields of steviol glycosides or a more balanced metabolite profile in terms of pharmacologically useful metabolites.