Assessment of genetic variability among antioxidant constituents in Husk tomato (Physalis ixocarpa Brot.) selections grown in temperate region

Abstract

The current study was carried out at experimental farm of ICAR-Central Institute of Temperate Horticulture, Srinagar during year 2011 and 2012. In this investigation a total ten selections of Husk tomato were screened for chlorophyll, ascorbic acid, phenolic, flavonoids, anthocyanins attributes and antioxidant activities (DPPH). Significant differences among antioxidant attributes were detected in selected husk tomato selections. The range ofchlorophyll a of the tested samples was (1.00-3.28 mg/100g), chlorophyll b (1.03-2.46 mg/100g) and total chlorophyll (2.05-5.17 mg/100g). DPPH % inhibition varied between 42.54 and 84.65 %; however, total anthocyanins ranged between (1.23 and 5.65) mgcyanidin-3-glucoside Eq·100 g–1 fresh weight. Total phenols varied from (15.65-20.84) mg gallic acid Eq·100 g–1 and total flavonoids from (20.18-25.93) mg catechin Eq·100 g–1. Total phenols and DPPH showed close association; however, PCA revealed that the first PC explained 35% of total variation and was positively associated to Chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, total antocyanin, total flavonols and ascorbic acid. All of the diverse cultivars were clustered into two clusters which could be exploited for future qualitative breeding programs in husk tomato. The importance of our findings would be significant for farmers, breeders, consumers and industries concerning food quality, disease prevention and healthcare.