Metabolomics analysis based on UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS reveals effects of genistein on reducing mycotoxin citrinin production by Monascus aurantiacus Li AS3.4384

Monascus mold produces useful bioactive compounds such as Monascus pigments, monacolin K, and ergosterol. In this study, metabolomics analysis was used to investigate the metabolic profile changes in Monascus aurantiacus Li AS3.4384 (MALA) induced by genistein at different fermentation times using UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. The addition of genistein was found to not only reduce citrinin but also suppress significant differential metabolites. A total of 21 significant differential metabolites were involved in the most significant metabolic pathways (impact >0.1). These metabolites affected the aspartic acid, glutamic acid pathway, tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, pyruvate synthesis pathway, and lysine degradation pathway. Thus, the addition of genistein may change the precursor for citrinin synthesis of Monascus. These findings provide significant insight into the Monascus metabolic pathways affected by genistein and will help to improve the quality control and safety of Monascus in food and supplements.