Evaluation of the bioactive potential of flavonoids properties from Eugenia calycina Cambess

Abstract

Flavonoids have shown important biological potential, such as antidiabetic activity, to human health. Scientific evidence suggests that the daily intake of foods containing flavonoids may reduce the incidence of chronic degenerative diseases. Flavonoids and their metabolites have been shown to be capable of modulating the gut microbiota towards the healthy microbiota, stimulate pancreatic ²-cells function and glucose uptake and utilization in skeletal muscle, modulate carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, minimize hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, improve adipose tissue metabolism and relieve oxidative stress preventing or delaying the onset and progression of diabetes. Brazil is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, with an abundant variety of flora and fauna. Brazilian flora, however, remains underutilized and its potential unknown regarding phytochemical compounds and biological activities despite the continued popularity of traditional medicine. Eugenia calycina Cambess, popularly known as pitanga-do-cerrado, is an unexplored Brazilian fruit found in the Cerrado Biome used to the traditional medicine in diabetes treatment. Recent studies have shown that Eugenia calycina is a potential source of phenolic compounds, especially flavonoids. The pulp shows a high concentration of flavonoids (461.42 mg/100 fw). Therefore, studies exploring the bioefficacy of this fruit and its bioactivities are necessary to explore the potential biological proprieties of its consumption to human health. In this context, the aim of the present project is to evaluate the bioactivities of the flavonoids from pulp Eugenia calycina. (AU)