LAUSR

BACKGROUND Citrus fruits are a rich source of valuable molecules, and their industrial processing produces wastes that are scarcely transformed into pectin. These Citrus residues, including seeds and peels, also contain numerous pharmacologically important substances. So, to reduce the impact of these Citrus by-products, young, harvested fruits could be used as a functional supplemental food while another part is grown until maturity for industrial production. Therefore, the study aims to valorize rangpur (Citrus limonia) in the first three months of its growth by investigating and comparing their monthly chemical profiles (UPLC-ESI-MS) and their anti-inflammatory and antiplatelet activities. RESULTS Extracts obtained from the fruits harvested in November, December, and January 2017 and 2018 (L221117, L161217 and L160118) showed different UPLC-ESI-MS profiles. 25 of the 26 detected metabolites were identified as cyclitol, pyrrolidine betaine, aryl propanoyl esters, chlorogenic acids, flavonoids, coumarins, and limonoids. Quantification studies indicated an increased concentration of hesperidin from the younger to the older fruits of the series. L160118 reduced NOx, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels more than other extracts. Their activity had the same tendency as the hesperidin concentration in each fruit. In contrast, the most promising antiplatelet activities were observed with the extracts from the two youngest fruits. This suggests combined effects of the chemical components found in these fruits' extracts. CONCLUSION The extract obtained from these young fruits showed considerable anti-inflammatory and antiplatelet activities. Overall, young rangpur could be used as raw materials to produce functional foods without producing any waste. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.