Articles Vol. 67 No. CĐ2-NCKH 05/03/2026

BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS AND POTENTIAL MEDICAL APPLICATIONS OF SEAHORSES (HIPPOCAMPUS SPP.): A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Vo Van Vinh1,2, Phan Thanh Tai3,4, Nguyen Kim Vuong3,4
1 1. Vo Truong Toan University
2 Trường Đại Học Võ Trường Toản
3 2. Vo Truong Toan University Hospital
4 Bệnh Viện Đại Học Võ Trường Toản
DOI: 10.52163/yhc.v67iCD2.4436
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Keywords
Hippocampus; peptides; antioxidant; anti-fatigue; safety; conservation.
Abstract

Objective: To synthesize major bioactive compound groups and preclinical evidence on medical application–related effects of seahorses (Hippocampus spp.).

Methods: A structured narrative review was conducted by searching PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and CNKI up to 30/11/2025.

Results: Seahorses are rich in proteins/amino acids and contain peptides, glycoproteins, sterols, unsaturated fatty acids, and trace elements. In vitro and in vivo studies indicate antioxidant activity; improved endurance indices and post-exertion fatigue-related markers; improved sperm parameters and testosterone in rat models of reproductive impairment; and limited signals for anti-inflammatory/immunomodulatory effects, neuroprotection, and UV-related anti-photoaging effects. Safety data remain limited, with concerns regarding quality variability and environmental contaminants; moreover, many species are listed in CITES Appendix II, underscoring the need for legal supply chains and sustainable aquaculture.

Conclusion: No human clinical trials were identified; therefore, current evidence is insufficient to recommend therapeutic use. Future work should prioritize product standardization, toxicity–interaction assessment, and well-designed controlled clinical trials.

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