Health Supplements and Cancer Treatment Development Berry Leaf Extracts

Date: 05 February 2021

Country: Poland

Application

• Natural Health Supplements: Potential use of berry leaf extracts as antioxidant-rich ingredients in dietary supplements.
• Cancer Treatment Development: Exploring berry leaf extracts for their cytotoxic effects in cancer therapy.

Description

This study explores the antioxidant and cytotoxic properties of berry leaves (Vaccinium myrtillus, Ribes nigrum, Rubus fruticosus, Fragaria vesca), typically considered agro-waste. The researchers assessed their bioactive compounds, including phenolics, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and procyanidins, and evaluated their effects on skin cell viability and migration. Findings indicate significant antioxidant potential and variable cytotoxic effects, suggesting the leaves' potential for use in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.

Pathway Description:

The process used in this project involves the extraction of bioactive compounds from berry leaves (Vaccinium myrtillus, Ribes nigrum, Rubus fruticosus, Fragaria vesca) using ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) with a water-glycerin solvent mixture. The extracts were then analyzed for their phenolic, flavonoid, anthocyanin, and procyanidin content using spectrophotometric methods. Cytotoxicity and antioxidant activity were assessed via DPPH radical scavenging and cell culture assays. The impact on cell migration was also evaluated using a scratch test on keratinocytes and fibroblasts.