GC-MS based phytochemical profiling of bhendi hybrid CO4 leaves under Nano DAP treatment

Abelmoschus esculentus L. (bhendi or okra) is widely cultivated for its nutritional, economic and therapeutic value. This study investigates the phytochemical composition of bhendi hybrid CO4 leaves treated with Nano diammonium phosphate (Nano DAP) using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Comparative profiling identified 44 metabolites in Nano DAP-treated samples compared with 37 metabolites in untreated control. The identified compounds include hydrocarbons, esters, alcohols, diterpenes and fatty acid methyl esters, reflecting diverse metabolic activities. Notably, compounds such as neophytadiene (13.93 %), isopropyl myristate (13.63 %), squalene (7.23 %) and 9, 12, 15-octadecatrienoic acid methyl ester (5.16 %) were detected in high abundance, known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. The nano DAP application triggered the biosynthesis of several unique metabolites do not present in control samples, indicating enhanced secondary metabolism. The enriched terpenoid and lipid profiles suggest a shift in biochemical pathways associated with nutrient assimilation, oxidative stress mitigation and defence mechanisms. These findings highlight the potential of nano-based phosphorus delivery to modulate metabolic dynamics and promote crop resilience in bhendi. This study establishes a foundation for further research into nano-fertilizer-mediated metabolomic shifts and their role in improving vegetable crop physiology and phytochemical richness.