Selection of interesting accessions of cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.) according to nutritional values
Abstract
Cornelian cherry (Cornus mas) was well known to the ancient Greeks and Romans, and references to the plant abound in their literature. The plant was grown in monastery gardens of continental Europe through the Middle Ages and was introduced to Britain about the sixteenth century. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, cornelian cherry is present at some specific habitats, like the Drvar valley in the Mostar region. Similarly, Cornus mas is the lead species for an entire “Genuss-Region” in Lower Austria, the Dirndl-valley in the Pielachtal-Region. It is valued as a plant characterizing/shaping the landscape and for its many alimentary and medicinal aspects. Cornelian cherry has an attractive and impressive aroma, which influence specific tastes. Also, the high concentration of vitamin C in fruit is a feature of this species. The fruits are distinguished by high concentration of vitamin E, polyphenolic complexes, organic acids, carotenoids and anthocyanins. Epidemiological studies have shown a clear positive correlation between fruit intake and reduced heart disease, tumors, and other degenerative diseases, as well as slowing the aging process. Contemporary scientific studies have shown that oxidative stress is a major cause of various diseases such as atherosclerosis, diabetes, malignant diseases, heart attack, stroke and other severe and chronic illnesses. Biochemical parameters, primarily antioxidants certainly prevent the emergence and development of these diseases. Inventories of Cornelian cherry fruit tress will be established on the territories of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Austria. Health related compounds, like Vitamin C concentration in fruits, total phenols concentration, total anthocyanins, and antioxidant activity of the samples will be analyzed will be analyzed and a breeding strategy developed. Efforts will involve the in vitro conservation and molecular characterization of selected cultivars. This research represents the basis or starting the procedure for the protection of traditional cornelian cherry products and knowledge. This would lead to the improvement of direct sale of the products on the producers' farms, contributing to a sustainable development of local communities.
keywords cornelian cherry Genetic diversity HEalth related compounds
Publikationen
Project staff
Margit Laimer
Ao.Univ.Prof. Dr.phil. Margit Laimer
margit.laimer@boku.ac.at
Tel: +43 1 47654-79010
Project Leader
01.01.2019 - 31.12.2020