The Sicilian wild cabbages as biological resources: taxonomic update and a review on chemical constituents and biological activities

Abstract

Considering the growing interest that wild brassicas have as sources of bioactive molecules as well as a genetic resource, the authors review and update the taxonomy of Brassica sect. Brassica, limited to the native flora of Sicily, an island considered to be an active diversification center for the group of species of the aforementioned section. Regarding the taxonomic aspects, Brassica tardarae is here considered a subspecies of B. rupestris; the distinction at the subspe- cific level of B. raimondoi, a critical taxon included in B. incana, is also confirmed. In addition, two new subspecies are proposed, respectively in B. incana and B. rupestris. The taxonomic information relating to the taxa reported is enriched by synthetic chorological data. A thorough examination of the literature concerning the chemical aspects and biological activity of some Sicilian taxa referred to Brassica sect. Brassica, allowed to highlight not only important bioac- tive molecules such as glucosinolates, but also the demonstrated biological activities. From these studies, therefore, the enormous potential of Sicilian wild cabbages emerges, not only as a recognized genetic resource, but also as a biological and nutraceutical one. This would demonstrate the considerable economic importance of these plants which can have positive effects on the innovation of agricultural production.