Exploring by-products as sources of bioactive compounds: LC-ESI-QTOF-MS profiling and bioactivity assessment of blood twig dogwood and cornelian cherry leaf extracts and fractions

The increasing incidence of chronic diseases, interest in bioactive compounds from agro-industrial by-products is increasing. This study explored the chemical profile and bioactivities of Cornus mas and Cornus sanguinea leaf extracts obtained through various extraction methods, especially focusing on the lesser-known C. sanguinea . The study assessed their anti-inflammatory properties (inhibition of NF-κB, nitric oxide reduction), antioxidant activity, and hypoglycaemic effects (inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase). LC-ESI-QTOF-MS analysis identified phenolic acids, iridoids, and flavonoids as key constituents. Hydroalcoholic maceration of dried C. mas and ethanol maceration of fresh C. sanguinea were fractionated using XAD-16 resin. Bioactivity was tested on fractions and on three key compounds: sweroside, cornuside, and ellagic acid. Sweroside and cornuside inhibited highly NO production. Moreover, sweroside exhibited a notable α-glucosidase inhibition. These findings highlight the potential benefits of Cornus leaves, providing a basis to develop Cornus -based products for the prevention or treatments for type 2 diabetes and inflammation. • By-products of blood twig dogwood and cornelian cherry were studied by LC-ESI-QTOF-MS. • Amberlite XAD-16 resin was used to obtain flavonoid- and iridoid-rich fractions. • Bioactivity of extracts, fractions and pure compounds were evaluated. • Sweroside exhibited the highest α-glucosidase inhibition (IC 50 of 0.88 μg/mL). • Molecular docking studies provided insights into interactions between compounds and target enzymes.