Sea cucumbers have long been regarded as both a tonic food and a medicinal resource in traditional medicine across various Asian countries. Over 1,700 species of sea cucumbers have been identified worldwide, with several possessing significant commercial value. Scientific research has demonstrated that these aquatic animals are rich in bioactive compounds with confirmed medicinal and therapeutic properties, including triterpene glycosides, carotenoids, bioactive peptides, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, collagens, gelatins, chondroitin sulfates, and amino acids. The beneficial effects of bioactive compounds isolated from sea cucumbers -validated through scientific studies- encompass wound healing, skin rash treatment, nervous system protection, antitumor activity, anticoagulant properties, antimicrobial effects, and antioxidant capabilities. These functional compounds have spurred advancements in the food, pharmaceutical, and biomedical industries by facilitating the development of new functional materials. This article provides an overview of the major pharmacological and therapeutic effects of functional compounds derived from sea cucumbers in the Asian region. It also discusses the structural significance and potential applications of these compounds, as well as their nutritional value. The investigation focuses on three species of sea cucumbers from the Stichopodidae family: Stichopus hermanni, Thelenota ananas, and Thelenota anax.
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