Maqui as a Chilean Functional Food: Antioxidant Bioactivity, Nutritional Value, and Health Applications

Maqui (<i>Aristotelia chilensis</i>) is a berry native to southern Chile, recognized for its high content of phenolic compounds, particularly delphinidin-type anthocyanins, which confer strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and have generated growing interest as a functional food. Its scientific relevance has increased due to advances in understanding its biological mechanisms, including the Nrf2 signaling pathway, modulation of systemic inflammation, improvement in mitochondrial function, and potential applications in cardiometabolic, renal, and vascular health. <b>Objective:</b> The objective of this study is to analyze the available evidence on maqui in relation to its nutritional composition, bioactive profile, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, bioavailability, and emerging clinical applications in the prevention and/or treatment of chronic non-communicable diseases. <b>Main findings:</b> Maqui is rich in delphinidins, dietary fiber, and antioxidant micronutrients and modulates key oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways, including Nrf2-HO-1 and NF-κB. Preclinical and early clinical evidence supports its cardiometabolic and nephroprotective effects, with improvements in glycemic control, lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and endothelial function. <b>Conclusions:</b> Maqui shows considerable potential as a Chilean functional food with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects relevant to human health. However, robust clinical trials and formulations with enhanced bioavailability are required to consolidate its therapeutic application.