Comparison of morphological and Phytochemical traits in some endogenous genotypes of bitter melon (Citrullus colocynthis L.)

Bitter melon (Citrullus colocynthis L.) plants belonging to cucurbitaceae family which have important properties such as anti-diabetes, anti-virus, anti-microbe and anti-cancer effects. With consideration that has not any report from characteristics assessment of its Iranian genotypes, therefore in this study 15 accessions were collected from different regions of Iran and evaluated in respect of morphological traits and ElatericinB presence was evaluated in three selected genotypes. In order to evaluate morphological traits and prepare samples for phytochemical assessments, we used bitter melon plants were grown in natural habitat. Plant samples were dried in room temperature and then were extracted. High performance liquid chromatography was used for measuring Elatericin B content. Comparison of genotypes based on morphological traits showed that significant differences have been between genotypes in respect most assessed traits. Cluster analysis based on morphological traits classified genotypes in different four groups. Phytocemical assessment of three selected genotypes showed that anti-cancer Elatericin B content in different organs is different and maximum content of it was been in leaf organ of Bandan genotype. This research is the first report showed that anti-cancer Elatericin B in addition of fruit and leaves, in stems and root of this plant so has been found and can extract anti-cancer material from other organs of plant.