Genotypic variability and multivariate characterization of antioxidant-associated bioactive compounds among genotypes of Indian blackberry fruits
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: ABSTRACT Indian blackberry, commonly known as jamun is an underutilized tropical and subtropical fruit valued for its rich phytochemical composition and high antioxidant potential. The present investigation assessed biochemical variability and multivariate relationships among 50 genotypes of jamun fruit. Fruits were evaluated for ascorbic acid (AA), phenolics content (TPC), flavonoids content (TFC), anthocyanins, total antioxidant capacity (AOX) and DPPH scavenging activity. In this study, AA ranged from 72.0 - 165.3 mg/100 g fresh weight (FW) while, TPC and TFC exhibited 7.6- and 9.86-fold variation, respectively. Anthocyanins demonstrated strong tissue specificity, with peel concentrations reaching 1985.74 mg/100 g FW, markedly exceeding pulp levels. AOX varied 7.17-fold among genotypes and DPPH inhibition ranged from 44.63 - 95.54%, indicating wide variation. Correlation analysis revealed strong positive associations among TPC, TFC, anthocyanins and antioxidant activity, confirming polyphenolic metabolites as principal determinants of antioxidant performance. Principal component analysis explained 74.98% total variance within first two components, with phenolic-associated metabolites predominantly influencing PC1. Hierarchical clustering and heat map analysis further validated structured biochemical diversity and identified distinct antioxidant-rich genotypes. The pronounced intraspecific variability highlights the potential of elite jamun genotypes for nutraceutical applications, functional food development, and breeding programs aimed for enhanced functional quality of jamun .
Source: Food Chemistry Advances
Institution: Banaras Hindu University
Language: English
Subfield: Biochemistry
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,080
OpenAlex ID: W7204255381