Multi-omics analysis reveals enhanced antioxidant capacity and altered flavor-associated metabolism in goji leaves infested by the gall mite Aceria pallida

Goji ( Lycium barbarum ) leaves are rich in bioactive compounds but highly susceptible to Aceria pallida , which induces gall formation. This study aimed to characterize the metabolic and flavor profile alterations in goji leaves following mite infestation. This study used a comprehensive approach—non-targeted and targeted metabolomics, volatile profiling, and antioxidant assays. Infestation by the goji gall mite triggered a strong defense response, increasing the activities of superoxide dismutase and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase in the phenylpropanoid metabolic pathway by 2.31-fold and 2.67-fold, respectively, and enhancing the specific accumulation of total polyphenols, total flavonoids, key phenolic acids, and carotenoid metabolites. Concurrently, biotic stress enhanced the antioxidant activity and altered flavor characteristics in gall-induced goji leaves. These findings establish goji gall mite as a biotic stress elicitor that improves both antioxidant capacity and sensory quality. This study provides a sustainable strategy for valorizing gall-induced goji leaves as a high-value functional food development.