An integrated sensomics-driven analytical approach for the precise identification of key odorants in complex floral matrices: a case study of tree peony organs

A sensomics-driven analytical platform was built for complex floral matrices. • Integrated HS-SPME-GC-O-MS and OAV mapping resolved 104 trace volatiles. • Omission tests successfully corrected discrepancies in independent OAV modeling. • Nine key chemometric markers were extracted to discriminate cultivar profiles. Quantifying and validating key odor-active compounds (OACs) in complex botanical matrices remains a significant challenge in modern analytical chemistry due to trace concentrations and complex matrix interferences. Traditional volatile profiling often relies solely on mass spectrometry (MS) or independent odor activity value (OAV) calculations, which fail to account for intermolecular synergistic or antagonistic effects. Applying this approach to Fengdan [FD] and Ziban [ZB] tree peony organs, 104 volatiles were mapped, revealing organ-specific metabolic tracks. PCA and HCA indicate significant differences in volatile compounds from different organs of peony. Through GC-O, OAV, aroma recombination, and omission experiments, 23 and 26 key aroma compounds were identified in ZB and FD petals, respectively, which contribute significantly to the formation of peony petals. Based on VIP > 1, nine key differential aroma compounds such as nonanal and geraniol were screened, which can be used to distinguish the petal aroma differences between FD and ZB. These findings provide a theoretical basis for the development of peony flower beverages and food. Download: Download high-res image (121KB) Download: Download full-size image