Plants of the genus Vitis: Phenolic compounds, anticancer properties and clinical relevance

Abstract

Background: Vitis genus comprised about 70 species. Concerning its pharmacological properties, V. vinifera is the most studied one, but there are other species with interest. Scope and approach: Therefore, this review aims to provide an updated overview on bioactive phytochemicals present in food products (grapes and wine) of V. vinifera and other Vitis species, as well as in different underused bioresources (stem, leaves, seeds, wine pomace, etc.). Moreover, due to their promising perspectives in the field of anticancer drug discovery, this bioactivity has been covered as well as the contribution that Vitis phenolic compounds has. Findings and conclusions: Among the plant products reviewed, grape seed extracts was the most investigated at preclinical phase, hence exhibiting a promising potential as anticancer drugs. However, an evidence-based clinical efficacy is still lacking.