First evidence and quantification of quercetin derivatives in dogberries (Cornus sanguinea L.)

Abstract

Aim: C. sanguinea L. is a widespread European shrubby species. It is a potential source of biologically active compounds, especially antioxidants, as indicated by the dogberries’ black color. The aim of the present study was to determine the content of several quercetin derivatives in the dogberries and to evaluate phytogeographical variability of these compounds. Materials and methods: The dogberries were collected in the middle of September at two natural habitats of this species: Mt. Avala and Lake Zlatar, Serbia. The extract obtained from fresh fruits was subjected to LC-MS/MS analysis to identify and quantify the content of five quercetin derivatives: quercetin-3-O-glucuronide (Q-3-O-GlcA), quercetin-3-O-galactoside (Q-3-O-Gal), quercetin-3-O-rutinoside (Q-3-O-Rut), quercetin-3-O-glucoside (Q-3-O-Glc) and quercetin-3-O-rhamnoside (Q-3-O-Rha). Results: All of examined quercetin derivatives were detected in extract of fresh dogberries and their contents were in the following order: Q-3-O-GlcA > Q-3-O-Gal > Q-3-O-Rut > Q-3-O-Glc > Q-3-O-Rha. The average amount of Q-3-O-Rut varied significantly and depended on the geographic origin of the fruit sample. Conclusions: These results indicate that dogberries could be a potential source of natural antioxidants, and encourage further investigation of this species considering that it has not yet been exploited in either nutrition or as a source of important pharmacological compounds.