Omics Analysis Revealing Flavonoid Content During Maize Grain Germination

<b>Background/Objectives:</b> The germination process initiates an active process of secondary metabolism, which produces a series of secondary metabolites, including flavonoids. <b>Methods:</b> A metabolomics and transcriptomics analysis was conducted on maize grains germinated at three different stages. <b>Results:</b> A total of 374 metabolites were detected in maize grains. From the raw maize grain to various stages of germination, 3 anthocyanins, 61 flavones, 12 flavonols, 13 flavanones, and 6 isoflavones were identified, respectively. An integrated omics analysis discovered that a total of 16 flavonoid metabolites were mapped to 4 KEGG pathways, which were associated with 40 related genes. This indicates that germination has significant benefits in improving the nutritional function of corn kernels. <b>Conclusions:</b> In summary, the findings of this study provide valuable insights into flavonoid metabolites and related genes, demonstrating the profound impact of germination treatment on the nutritional and functional aspects of maize grains.