Bioactive compounds and functional applications of Morinda citrifolia L. (noni): a systematic review on food and biotechnological potential

Abstract

Abstract Morinda citrifolia L., commonly known as noni, has attracted increasing scientific and industrial attention due to its complex phytochemical composition and the wide range of biological activities associated with its bioactive constituents. This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines with the aim of compiling and critically analyzing current scientific evidence regarding the chemical composition, biological activities, technological applications, and safety aspects of Morinda citrifolia. The literature search included studies published between 2014 and 2024 and was performed using the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and SciELO databases. After the stages of identification, screening, eligibility, and inclusion, twenty-nine original studies involving different experimental models were selected for analysis. The reviewed publications demonstrate that M. citrifolia contains a diverse array of secondary metabolites, particularly flavonoids, iridoids, phenolic acids, and related phytochemicals, which are frequently associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antitumor activities. In the food sector, extracts obtained from different parts of the plant have been incorporated into functional formulations, fermented beverages, and nutraceutical supplements. These applications demonstrate promising technological potential, including improved oxidative stability, enhanced microbiological preservation, and increased shelf life of food products. In addition, recent experimental evidence suggests that compounds present in M. citrifolia may influence molecular pathways related to gene expression and cellular protection mechanisms, including DNA repair and oxidative stress modulation, highlighting its relevance in food biotechnology and nutraceutical research. Despite the numerous beneficial effects reported in the literature, toxicological findings indicate that high concentrations of extracts may induce adverse physiological responses in certain experimental models. These observations reinforce the importance of establishing standardized extraction methods, safe dosage parameters, and comprehensive toxicological evaluations to ensure the safe application of this species in food and pharmaceutical systems. Overall, the available scientific evidence supports the recognition of Morinda citrifolia L. as a sustainable and multifunctional source of bioactive compounds with promising potential for the development of innovative functional foods and biotechnological applications. Nevertheless, further investigations focusing on extract standardization, clinical validation, and industrial scalability remain essential for consolidating its safe and effective use.