A Comprehensive Update on the Bioactive Compounds from Seagrasses

Mar Drugs. 2022 Jun 21;20(7):406. doi: 10.3390/md20070406.

Abstract

Marine angiosperms produce a wide variety of secondary metabolites with unique structural features that have the potential to be developed as effective and potent drugs for various diseases. Recently, research trends in secondary metabolites have led to drug discovery with an emphasis on their pharmacological activity. Among marine angiosperms, seagrasses have been utilized for a variety of remedial purposes, such as treating fevers, mental disorders, wounds, skin diseases, muscle pain, and stomach problems. Hence, it is essential to study their bioactive metabolites, medical properties, and underlying mechanisms when considering their pharmacological activity. However, there is a scarcity of studies on the compilation of existing work on their pharmacological uses, pharmacological pathways, and bioactive compounds. This review aims to compile the pharmacological activities of numerous seagrass species, their secondary metabolites, pharmacological properties, and mechanism of action. In conclusion, this review highlights the potency of seagrasses as a promising source of natural therapeutical products for preventing or inhibiting human diseases.

Keywords: bioactive compound; marine angiosperm; medical properties; potential drug.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biological Products* / metabolism
  • Biological Products* / pharmacology
  • Drug Discovery*
  • Humans

Substances

  • Biological Products

Grants and funding

This research received no external funding.