Prunus spinosa L. Branches as a New Source of Condensed Tannins: Phytochemical Profile and Antioxidant, Cytotoxic and Genotoxic In Vitro Evaluation.

(1) Background: Prunus spinosa L. is known for its polyphenolic profile, including condensed tannins, compounds associated with various biological activities, including antiproliferative effects. Its woody biomass, such as branches, remains largely underexplored, as a few studies have investigated its potential bioactive content. This study aimed to characterize and evaluate the biological potential of crude extract (PS) obtained from P. spinosa branches. (2) Methods: The extract (PS) was prepared using microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) under optimized green conditions (70% ethanol, 1/10 solid-liquid ratio, 5 min, 600 W). Its chemical profile was analyzed by High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC). Antioxidant capacity was assessed through HPTLC-DPPH, DPPH and ABTS assays. In vitro cytotoxicity and genotoxicity were evaluated on HeLa (tumoral) and Vero (normal) cell lines using MTT and Comet assays. (3) Results: HPTLC analysis revealed the presence of condensed tannins. The extract demonstrated potent radical scavenging activity (IC50 1.02 ± 0.25 mg/mL), dose-dependent cytotoxicity, and higher sensitivity of HeLa cells. Genotoxic effects were significantly more pronounced in tumor cells than in normal ones. (4) Conclusions: These findings highlight the condensed tannins' phytochemical profile, antioxidant and selective antitumor properties of PS, supporting its valorization as a sustainable source of multifunctional bioactive compounds.