Characterization of Bioactive Natural Compounds and Nutraceutical Quality in Andean Landraces Grown Under Optimal and Elevated Temperatures

Abstract

Tomatoes are a source of bioactive natural compounds (BNCs) in our diet, with substantial scientific evidence supporting their health benefits. Current breeding programs aim to enhance the organoleptic and nutraceutical qualities of commercial cultivars while also seeking to mitigate the impact of climate change. In this context, tomato landraces, which have not been subjected to intensive breeding programs, are considered valuable genetic resources. This study evaluated and compared the nutraceutical quality of four Andean landrace varieties with the wild tomato species S. pimpinellifolium and three commercial cultivars. Nutraceutical value was defined by the composition of BNCs such as carotenoids, polyphenolics, and electrophiles, as well as their antioxidant and electrophilic activities, and their ability to induce thermotolerance in C. elegans. These parameters were analyzed in tomato extracts from germplasm grown under optimal and high-temperature conditions. The results showed that Andean landraces had higher nutraceutical values than the commercial cultivars. Landrace #3815 and the S. pimpinellifolium species (#1589) exhibited the greatest nutraceutical value and adaptability to thermal stress. Additionally, correlation analysis between BNC composition and biological activities identified 55 BNCs as potential contributors to the nutraceutical quality of tomatoes. These findings provide information that can guide genetic breeding efforts by a) highlighting genetic resources for enhancing the nutritional composition and environmental adaptability of cultivated tomatoes, and b) identifying BNCs that can serve as important indicators of nutritional quality.