Underexploited fruits from the Brazilian Cerrado: Biodiversity, phenolic composition and biological activities

Abstract

The Brazilian Cerrado, recognized as the largest tropical savanna in the world, harbors a vast diversity of underexplored fruits with significant nutritional and functional potential. The review focused on 40 native fruits, with data from the literature presented on their phenolic composition, associated biological activities, and the extraction methods most utilized, as detailed in the study's tables. Key phenolic compounds, including gallic acid, quercetin, catechin, and chlorogenic acid, were identified, with concentrations varying based on the fruit part (pulp, peel, or seeds). These compounds demonstrate potent antioxidant capacity, with values exceeding 5000 μmol TE/g in assays such as 2,2-Diphenyl-1-Picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′-Azino-Bis(3-Ethylbenzothiazoline-6-Sulfonic Acid) (ABTS), Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC), and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) for fruits like araticum and buriti. Additionally, bioactive properties such as anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antimicrobial effects were observed. The study emphasizes the influence of environmental factors, such as soil composition and climate, on the bioactive profiles of these fruits. This data highlights the potential for sustainable applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries, while also underscoring the need for further research to fully exploit their benefits and ensure the conservation of Cerrado biodiversity.