How Seasonality May Shape Key Phenolic Compounds of Eugenia punicifolia: A Study Driven by NMR Metabolomics
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide Eugenia punicifolia DC., a medicinal plant rich in bioactive phenolics, has shown promising results regarding its potential in the prevention of type 2 diabetes. This study investigated the seasonal influence on the chemical profile of leaf extracts (methanol:ethanol:water, 3:1:1) using 1 H NMR spectroscopy and multivariate analysis. Principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least-squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) revealed distinct metabolic patterns associated with rainy (Feb-May), dry (Sep-Nov), and transitional (Jan, Jun, Jul, and Dec) periods. The PLS-DA model showed high predictive power ( R 2 > 0.85, Q 2 > 0.85), identifying quercetin, myricetin, gallic acid, catechin, and epigallocatechin as seasonal markers. Significant correlations were found between metabolite levels and environmental variables, such as temperature, rainfall, and sunlight exposure. These results demonstrate that abiotic factors regulate the biosynthesis of phenolic compounds, reflecting the plant’s adaptive responses. The study offers a scientific basis for optimizing harvest timing and enhances understanding of the ecological and pharmacological potential of E. punicifolia, providing valuable insights into the development of standardized herbal medicines and phytoproducts.
Source: ACS Omega
Authors: Kidney O G Neves, Samuel O Silva, Marinildo S Cruz, Francisco Célio M Chaves, Marcos B Machado, Alan Diego C Santos
Language: English
Subfield: Biochemistry
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,935
Awards: G2091273093, G2256271906, G3690646728
OpenAlex ID: W4414375494