Label-free DIA quantitative proteomic analysis of proteome variations and quality trait correlations in Oviductus ranae under different drying methods

Oviductus ranae is rich in protein and fat, serving as a significant functional food. This study employed label-free DIA rapid quantitative proteomics technology to examine the differences in protein composition of Oviductus Ranae processed by negative pressure airflow combined desiccator drying method(NPAD） in comparison to traditional drying methods(natural drying and hot-air drying), as well as its effects on physicochemical properties, microstructure, and protein structure. The findings indicate that, in comparison to traditional drying techniques, NPAD minimizes the loss of nutritional quality while better preserving the appearance and internal structure. The α-helix content in the secondary structure was 39.62% for NPAD, 38.71% for ND, and only 25.14% for HAD. Furthermore, proteomics techniques were employed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which key differential proteins (DEPs) influence trait quality.Notable DEPs, including glutathione S-transferase ω, β-enolase, fructose-diphosphate aldolase, paralbumin, actin β chain.These proteins sensitively reflect the variations induced by the current drying process and can be regarded as candidate indicator proteins for responding to different drying conditions. These results provide mechanistic insights into the quality changes of Oviductus ranae during the drying process and establish theoretical and practical foundations for selecting optimal drying methods to produce high-quality Oviductus ranae .