Nutraceutical Content and Genetic Diversity Share a Common Pattern in New Pomegranate Genotypes

Abstract

The nutraceutical value of pomegranate in the treatment of many diseases is well-documented and is linked to its richness in phenolic compounds. This study aims to evaluate the nutraceutical and genetic diversity of novel pomegranate genotypes (G1–G5) in comparison to leading commercial pomegranate varieties, i.e., ‘Wonderful’, ‘Primosole’, ‘Dente di Cavallo’ and ‘Valenciana’. Morphometric measurements were carried out on fruits, accompanied by chemical characterization (total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, carbohydrates and minerals) and the development of four new polymorphic SSR markers involved in the flavonoid pathway. The cultivars displayed a marked variability in the weight and shape of the fruits, as well as in the weight of the arils and juice yield. The highest level of total phenolic content and antioxidant activity was found in ‘Wonderful’ and G4, while the lowest was in ‘Dente di Cavallo’. Furthermore, the results showed that pomegranate juice is an excellent source of minerals, especially potassium, which plays a key role in organ functioning. The new flavonoid-related markers effectively differentiated the cultivars with the same diversity pattern as morpho-chemical characterization, so the SSRs developed in the present study can be used as a rapid tool for the identification of pomegranate cultivars with relevant nutraceutical traits, such as the new genotypes investigated.

Component analysis and anti-pulmonary fibrosis effects of Rosa sterilis juice

“…We found that K was the most abundant macroelement in RSJ, and the levels were higher than those in pomegranate, orange, lemon, and carrot juice. 24,25 In addition, RSJ also contains Ca, Mg, Fe, and Mn, but its Na content is low; this composition characteristic may benefit some special populations, such as people who have hypokalemia, hypertension or arrhythmia. And a study has shown that Rosa roxburghii Tratt juice alleviated arsenic-induced element imbalance clinically, reduced the contents of Al, As and Cd, and increased the levels of Mn, Cr, Se and Sr in serum.…”

Natural Products: Therapeutic Properties and Beyond II

“…The study conducted by Arlotta et al [ 12 ] aimed to evaluate the nutraceutical and genetic diversity of novel pomegranate genotypes (G1–G5) in comparison with leading commercial pomegranate varieties (Wonderful, Primosole, Dente di Cavallo, and Valenciana). The results showed that pomegranate juice is an excellent source of minerals that are essential for human health.…”

In-Depth Chemical Characterization of Punica granatum L. Seed Oil

“…Chemico-physical properties, pH and color, total soluble solids content and sugar/acid ratio, vitamin C, punicalagin, ellagic acid, and anthocyanins contents were evaluated. The pomological and physicochemical studies were also performed with the aim of better characterizing the pomegranate biodiversity [ 5 , 6 , 7 ], showing that samples displayed a high variability. In any case, pomegranate fruits represented an excellent source of minerals, especially potassium, recognized for the key role played in the cells.…”