Revealing metabolite diversity in seeds of species belonging to Orchis and Anacamptis genus

Year 2025, Volume: 12 Issue: 1, 69 - 96

Erdi Can Aytar

Abstract

This study aims to compare the chemical compositions of methanol extracts from seeds of 10 different species belonging to the Anacamptis and Orchis genera, highlighting significant differences among these species. Seeds collected from various locations in Samsun, Muğla, and İzmir during 2022 and 2023 were analyzed using GC-MS. The results revealed various secondary metabolites in seeds of both Anacamptis and Orchis species. A. palustris seeds, hexadecanoic acid 2-hydroxy-1-(hydroxymethyl) ethyl ester was found at a rate of 16.21%, while methyl stearate was found at 11.14%. In contrast, O. purpurea seeds contained hexadecanoic acid 2-hydroxy-1-(hydroxymethyl) ethyl ester at 34.94% and methyl stearate at 8.69%. These findings indicate significant variability in the distribution of compounds among species. The rare compound tricyclo [20.8.0.0(7,16)] triacontane, found in O. provincialis, contains tricyclic structures with a 1(22),7(16)-diepoxy group, highlighting its potential role in the chemical profile of this species. Additionally, other rare compounds like tricyclo [20.8.0.0(7,16)] triacontane in O. provincialis emphasize their potential roles in chemical profiles across different species. This study is considered a significant step towards understanding the similarities and differences in biochemical components of seeds from Anacamptis and Orchis, thereby contributing to the understanding of their roles in plant physiological adaptations and ecosystem dynamics. The findings provide valuable insights for plant conservation strategies and biological applications.

Keywords

GC-MS analysis, Natural product, Orchidaceae, Secondary metabolites, Seed

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