Morus alba Calli: A Sustainable Source of Phytochemicals and Nutritive Supplements

Morus alba L., a member of the Moraceae family, is known for its positive effects on human health, linked to the presence of different classes of secondary metabolites, including flavonoids, stilbenoids, and alkaloids, found in different parts of the plant. Stilbenoids, in particular, are mainly present at the root cortex level and, owing to their valuable activities, have attracted scientific interest in recent years. Since roots are a non-renewable source, in this study, M. alba in vitro callus cultures were established. The biomass with the appropriate growth and texture was selected for juice extraction, and the total phenol, flavonoid, and proanthocyanidin contents, along with the antioxidant activity, were estimated in the juices. The analyses throughout the callus growth cycle revealed the juice of 14-day-old calli to be the richest, resulting in the most active. In this juice, the LC-MS/MS-DAD analysis unveiled the presence of seventeen stilbenoids. Together with the data obtained by the nutritional analysis, the results showed that M. alba cell cultures have the potential to be utilised for producing innovative healthy food materials, bridging the gap between the ever-increasing natural-based-product demand and the need for more environmental, social, and economic development.