Comprehensive Metabolomic Profiling of Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Reveals Biomarkers Involved in Viral Disease Detection and Monitoring

Common bean production is crucial in Western Kenya due to its economic, nutritional, environmental, and cultural importance. However, challenges such as diseases, especially viral diseases, cause significant crop losses. This study sought to identify potential biomarkers for BCMV and BCMNV viral diseases by analyzing small molecule metabolites in diseased common bean systems and gain an understanding of related metabolic pathways. Virus-free Rosecoco bean cultivars were planted and exposed to BCMV and BCMNV in specific regions, with healthy plants serving as controls. Diseased and healthy leaves were collected for metabolite extraction and analyzed using liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. A total of 354 metabolites were identified across seven pathways, with 51 upregulated metabolites, primarily from fatty acids, terpenoids, and alkaloids. Ten metabolites were differentially expressed, with the molecular structures of two successfully determined. These metabolites serve as potential biomarkers for viral disease detection, monitoring, and resistance in common beans. The findings highlight the role of fatty acids and terpenoids, as well as the importance of regional variability in plant hormone regulation in response to stress, suggesting that further research into these pathways will be essential for understanding plant defense mechanisms.