Potencial farmacológico das antocianinas presentes nos frutos de espécies de jabuticabas (Plinia spp., Myrtaceae)

Abstract

Anthocyanins are a group of pigments belonging to the class of flavonoids, particularly found in edible dark-colored fruits. Several studies have reported in the literature that these compounds have beneficial effects on health and have been shown to be effective in reducing the incidence of cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, hyperlipidemias, among other chronic diseases. Many of these biological activities have been attributed, in part, to their potent antioxidant activity. Jabuticaba (Plinia spp.), a native emerging Brazilian fruit, is a berry that has a purple, almost black, peel that covers its attractive and distinctly-flavored pulp and it is a rich source of anthocyanins. Jabuticaba has been traditionally used to treat diarrhea and respiratory problems such as asthma and throat inflammation. This review aims to highlight the major beneficial effects of anthocyanins for health as well as elucidate some of the key mechanisms involved and correlate them with the activities described for the different species of Plinia sp, called the “Brazilian super fruit”.