Metabolomics profiling reveals the detoxification and tolerance behavior of two bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) varieties under arsenate stress

The present study conducted metabolomics profiling (targeted and untargeted) in the roots of two wheat varieties (BARANI-70 and NARC-09) under arsenate stress in a hydroponic experiment. The findings indicated a better growth response of BARANI-70 compared to the NARC-09. From amino acid profiling, a total of 26 amino acids (AAs) were quantified in roots. BARANI-70 showed higher induction of stress-responsive AAs compared to the NARC-09. From untargeted metabolomics, a total of 136 metabolites were identified: AAs, fatty acids, purines, carnitines, LysoPCs, and others. The KEGG pathway identified pathways such as linoleic acid metabolism, TCA cycle, glutathione metabolism, and aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis that were regulated to improve the defense of tolerant variety. BARANI-70 emerged as a tolerant variety based on the psychological response, As accumulation, and behavior of stress-responsive metabolites. This study should facilitate the breeding of low-As accumulating wheat varieties for future application to ensure sustainable production and food safety.