Jianli Zhong

Author    Correspondence author
Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding, 2025, Vol. 15, No.   
Received: 01 Jan., 1970    Accepted: 01 Jan., 1970    Published: 21 Oct., 2025

This study combined metabolomics and genomics data to analyze the biosynthesis of theobromine in Theobroma cacao. The results show that theobromine is mainly synthesized in the young peels and cotyledons, and gradually accumulates in the seeds as the tissues mature. Metabolic pathway analysis revealed that the synthesis of theobromine is related to the transformation of purine nucleotides such as AMP and GMP, with key intermediates including 7-methylxanthosine and 3-methylxanthine. Genomic research has found that during the domestication process, genes related to theobromine metabolism were significantly selected, thereby affecting the theobromine content in different varieties. Multi-omics data also indicate that post-processing steps such as fermentation can lead to a decrease in theobromine levels. This study aims to provide molecular targets and theoretical references for improving cocoa quality and developing functional components.