Targeted quantification of bioactive compounds from anacardium humile and anacardium occidentale by HPLC-MS/MS and evaluation of antioxidant capacity

Abstract

Although Anacardium humile and Anacardium occidentale fruits are widely consumed in Brazil, quantitative data on their bioactive compound content remain scarce. This study aimed to develop and validate a high-performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (HPLC‑MS/MS) method for the targeted quantification of 12 metabolites and to assess their antioxidant potential. Twenty-four mature fruit samples were collected from individual trees and purchased from open-air markets in Goiás and the Federal District over three different weeks (during September and October) and were analyzed using a validated method (r > 0.99; relative standard deviation (RSD) < 12.84%; recovery 88-111%). Ascorbic acid was the predominant compound in both species, although notable interspecific differences were observed for catechin, isoquercetin, and gallic acid. Principal component analysis (PCA) confirmed distinct chemical profiles between species. Antioxidant activity varied significantly, with the effective concentration (EC50) values ranging from 65.67 to 381.94 g fruit per g 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) for A. occidentale and from 85.37 to 227.62 for A. humile. These findings underscore the importance of robust analytical techniques for characterizing the complex phytochemistry of native Brazilian fruits.