Valorization of the neglected Prunus mahaleb L, fruits as a source of functional molecules

Valorization of the neglected Prunus mahaleb L., fruits as a source of functional molecules Gerardi C.1, Frassinetti S.3, Leone A.1, Calabriso N.2, Carluccio M.A.2, F. Blando1 and Mita G. 1 1 Institute of Sciences of Food Production, CNR, Lecce, Italy 2 Institute of Clinical Physiology, CNR, Lecce, Italy 3 Institute of Biology and Agricultural Biotechnology, CNR, Pisa, Italy Abstract: Prunus mahaleb L. is a tree producing dark-red small stone fruits, not used for fresh consumption due to their astringent and sour taste. In this communication will be described a "mahaleb fruit concentrated extract" (mfce) and its chemical characterization. The extract showed high anthocyanin, flavonol and coumarin content. Moreover, the results of the in vitro assays for mfce biological activities will be reported. Mfce showed strong antioxidant capacity and anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory and anti-mutagenic effects. This study demonstrated several healthful effects of mfce that may be of interest as natural food colorant and as source of molecules for the formulation of functional foods.