Resource utilization and phenological dynamics in underground-aboveground parts of Rheum tanguticum via metabolomics and microbiomics

Abstract

Abstract Rhubarb, a globally important perennial herb, possesses considerable pharmaceutical and food potential. Using Rheum tanguticum as plant material, this study systematically profiled the metabolomic and endophytic communities of its roots, petioles, and leaves across different phenological stages. Non-targeted metabolomics (UHPLC-QExactive HF-X) revealed that anthraquinone compounds accumulated in the roots, while organic acids like malic acid and fumaric acid were enriched in the petioles. Metabolic variation was more pronounced across tissues at the same phenological stage than within the same tissue across stages. From a phenological perspective, root metabolism remained relatively stable, whereas the above-ground tissues exhibited greater sensitivity to phenological development. Microbial community structure was also influenced by both phenological stage and plant compartment. More critically, key genera of endophytes showed a strong positive correlation with anthraquinone content. These findings provide a theoretical foundation for whole-plant resource utilization and provide insights into harvesting optimization and microbial applications.