Identification of phenolics from miracle berry (Synsepalum dulcificum) leaf extract and its antiangiogenesis and anticancer activities

Miracle berry is well-known for its ability to convert sour foods to sweet. In this study, the secondary metabolites of miracle berry leaves (MBL) were identified by UPLC-DAD-MS, and its antiangiogenesis and anticancer activities were evaluated by using a zebrafish model and the MCF-7 xenograft mouse model, respectively. The result showed that 18 phenolic compounds were identified in MBL extract, and dominated by the derivatives of quercetin and myricetin. The MBL extract showed low toxicity and high antiangiogenesis activity, it significantly inhibited the subintestinal vein vessels development in zebrafish at very low concentration. Furthermore, the MBL extract could promote the apoptosis of tumor cells and significantly inhibit the growth of MCF-7 xenograft tumor. In addition, the analysis of metabolites revealed that the MBL extract inhibited tumor growth by activating the metabolic pathways of unsaturated fatty acids and purines. Overall, this study suggests that MBL extract can be used as a natural anticancer adjuvant in the fields of functional foods.