Salicylic acid promotes phenolic acid biosynthesis for the production of phenol acid-rich barley sprouts.

Salicylic acid treatment during barley germination significantly promoted the enrichment of total phenolic acid by increasing the activities and gene expression levels of enzymes involved in the phenolic acid biosynthesis pathway. Salicylic acid induced the accumulation of reactive oxygen species, inhibited sprout growth, and activated the antioxidant system. This study provides a basis for the future development of functional foods using phenol acid-rich plants as raw materials. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.