Preparation of a Micronutrient-Enriched Apricot Kernel Oil and Assessment of In Vitro Chemopreventive Properties

Apricot kernels (Prunus armeniaca L.) represent a valuable by-product of stone fruit cultivation, offering diverse applications in food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. While apricot kernel oil is recognized for its rich composition of unsaturated fatty acids, phenolics, and tocopherols, its therapeutic potential, particularly in cancer prevention, remains unexplored. This study investigated a purified fraction (FOPF) obtained from Farclo variety kernel oil, cultivated in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy and selected for its naturally low amygdalin content. In vitro studies demonstrated FOPF's significant antiproliferative effects against colorectal cancer (LoVo, HT29) and hepatocarcinoma (Hep3B) cell lines, with GI₅₀ values ranging from 0.06 to 0.09 mg/mL. The fraction induced cell cycle arrest and significantly inhibited cancer cell migration, effects mediated through PPAR-γ expression modulation. These findings establish FOPF's potential as a natural chemopreventive agent and provide a foundation for its development as a nutraceutical ingredient targeting colorectal and hepatic cancers.