This study has developed an innovative method for the production of secondary metabolites starting from
Cydonia oblonga Mill (quince) pulp callus culture. The qualitative and quantitative content of phenolic and triterpenic
acids of quince callus extract were elucidated by GC–MS, GC, and HPLC-DAD-ESI-MSn. The callus
extract was rich of 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid (5-CQA), 5-p-coumaroylquinic acid (5-p-CoQA) and maslinic and
corosolic acid. Quince callus extract’s radical scavenging and antioxidant activity were evaluated by 2,2-
diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, 2,2,-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid), and Oxygen Radical Absorbance
Capacity methods. The genoprotection was evaluated by gel electrophoresis analysis and quantitative
Real-Time PCR. In addition to the good antioxidant activity the quince callus extract is a strong inhibitor of
α-glucosidase (IC50 of 0.25 ± 0.02 mg dw/mL) and lipase (IC50 of 1.99 ± 0.005 mg dw/mL), but mild inhibitor of
α-amylase. Therefore, this work would be significant for the future development of a nutraceutical approach to
the management of hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia.
