Abstract:In this paper, label-free technique was applied to determine the proteomics of mulberry leaves drying by two drying methods. The results showed that 4 292 proteins were detected totally and 114 differential proteins were discovered by two drying methods. Total protein covers 11 molecular functions, including cell development(7%), cytoplasmic (2%), energy metabolism (10%), cell membrane and substance transport (4%), metabolic process (11%), photosynthesis (13%), protein folding, transport and degradation (2%), protein synthesis (7%), signal transduction (6%) and stress defense(8%). Analysis of differential proteins showed that the retention rate of macromolecular protein in vacuum freeze-drying was higher than heat pump drying. The content of chloroplast protein and cell structure protein decreased significantly in heat pump drying treatment, and these proteins were survived in vacuum freeze-dried. Heat pump drying treatment may also lead to increased stress-related protein. The results revealed that different drying methods affect the protein content and composition of mulberry leaves, and vacuum freeze-dried might be more suitable for mulberry leaves dehydration.