Changes in the triacylglycerol content of flaxseeds during development using liquid chromatography- atmospheric pressure photoionization-mass spectrometry (LC-APPI-MS)

Abstract

Changes in the composition of triacylglycerols (TAGs) of three varieties of flaxseeds (H52, O116 and P129) during development were investigated using non-aqueous reversed phase liquid chromatography coupled to atmospheric pressure photoionization-mass spectrometry (LC-APPI-MS). 17 species of triacylglycerols were found and their fatty acyl composition was confirmed by fragment ions in the mass spectra. The major forms observed were LnLnLn, LnLLn, LnOLn, LLLn, LnLnP, OOLn and OLLn. The highest change in these compounds occurred in the early development period for most TAGs. The most active period of triacylglycerol synthesis was between 7 and 35 days after flowering (DAF). LnLnLn exhibited the most significant increase during flaxseed development. At maturity, similar TAG profiles were found for the three samples.

Key words: Flaxseeds, seed development, triacylglycerols (TAGs), APPI, mass spectrometry.