Aronia Melanocarpa as a Multifunctional Superberry: From Antioxidant Potential to Therapeutic and Nanotechnological Applications

PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW: This review aims to provide an overview of the nutritional composition, bioactive compounds, and health-promoting properties of Aronia melanocarpa, with a particular focus on its antioxidant capacity and potential therapeutic applications in chronic disease prevention and management. RECENT FINDINGS: In vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies indicate that Aronia melanocarpa exerts potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, cardioprotective, anti-obesity, and anticancer effects, attributed mainly to its rich anthocyanin and procyanidin content. Human intervention trials have shown improved antioxidant status, lipid and glucose metabolism, vascular function, and inflammatory markers. However, some results remain inconclusive due to differences in cultivar, processing, dosage, and individuals. Supporting evidence from animal and cellular models highlights the regulation of NF-κB and AMPK signaling pathways, modulation of gut microbiota, and protective effects against metabolic and age-related disorders. Furthermore, novel applications in nanotechnology demonstrate that Aronia melanocarpa extracts can serve as eco-friendly agents in synthesizing bioactive nanoparticles with antioxidant, antimicrobial, and biomedical potential. Aronia melanocarpa is a promising functional food with strong potential for nutraceutical and therapeutic applications. While experimental evidence supports its health benefits, human clinical data remain insufficient to establish standardized dosage and long-term use recommendations. Future research should focus on well-designed clinical trials, bioavailability optimization, and fully elucidating the role of Aronia melanocarpa in health promotion and disease prevention.