Comparative metabolomic analysis in roots of natural and cultivated Astragalus membranaceus in Mongolia

Abstract Background Astragalus membranaceus , a valuable medicinal plant, is widely used in the pharmaceutical, food, and nutritional industries due to its rich bioactive compounds. Its increasing demand has led to extensive cultivation of A. membranaceus to supplement natural resources and ensure a stable supply. However, comparing the metabolic characteristics of natural and cultivated plants is essential for understanding their quality, authenticity, and potential pharmacological differences. Results We conducted a comparative analysis of polysaccharide and monosaccharide composition and untargeted metabolite profiling in the roots of natural and cultivated A. membranaceus plants in Mongolia. The levels of alcohol soluble total polysaccharides and the major abundant monosaccharides were similar between natural and cultivated A. membranaceus roots. Whereas several less abundant monosaccharides showed reduced levels in the cultivated roots. Untargeted metabolomic profiling identified a total of 157 metabolites, among which 42 and 35 were differentially accumulated in natural and cultivated roots, respectively. Most metabolites showed increased levels in the cultivated roots; however, 32 metabolites were enriched in natural roots. Functional pathway enrichment revealed distinct metabolic features between the two root types. In natural roots, pathways related to stress response, biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, and energy production were enriched. In cultivated roots, the enriched metabolic pathways were linked to primary metabolism, growth, and energy production. Conclusions Our findings reveal distinct metabolic characteristics between natural and cultivated A. membranaceus roots, likely shaped by differences in growth environments, soil conditions, and adaptive metabolic reprogramming. These results provide a valuable reference for evaluating, authenticating, and distinguishing natural and cultivated A. membranaceus roots, and offer insights into their pharmacological potential and quality control.