Non-targeted metabolomics profiling of <i>Vaccinium dunalianum</i> Wight: UPLC-MS/MS analysis of metabolite variability across different tissues

A non-targeted metabolomics study using ultra high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) was conducted to explore the metabolic components and variations in different tissues [flower (H), fruit (G), branch (Z), and leaf (Y)] of <i>Vaccinium dunalianum</i> Wight. A total of 1493 metabolites were identified, revealing significant differences in composition among tissues. Notably, 96, 98 and 90 metabolites differentially accumulated in H vs Y, G vs Y and Z vs Y comparisons, respectively. The differentially accumulated metabolites were associated with 12 significantly altered metabolic pathways. The leaf of <i>V. dunalianum</i> Wight had significantly more metabolites than the fruit, flower, and branch. Caffeic acid, theobromine, and amino acid like tryptophan and tyrosine are particularly abundant in Quezui tea leaves, enhancing their nutritional value and health benefits. This study provides a scientific basis for understanding the effective components of <i>V. dunalianum</i> Wight and offers insights for its comprehensive development and sustainable resource utilisation.