American Society of Hirudotherapy

Leech Eicosanoid Modulator

Modulates prostaglandin and leukotriene cascades — anti-inflammatory pathway.

Preclinical / mechanisticLast updated: 2026-05-26 · Reviewed by ASH Editorial Board
Molecular weight of Leech Eicosanoid Modulator compared with other characterized leech-derived compoundsHementerin80 kDaHementin80 kDaHementin-Like Protein (HLP-1)80 kDaLeech Collagenase70 kDaHaemadipsa yanyuanensis Progr…70 kDaLeech Apyrase67 kDaCalin65 kDaHyaluronidase60 kDaAntithrombin III binding prot…58 kDaCollagenolytic Fibrinolysin55 kDaLeech Thrombospondin-Like Pro…50 kDaLeech Eicosanoid Modulator18 kDa
Molecular weight (kilodaltons) of Leech Eicosanoid Modulator (highlighted) alongside other characterized leech salivary compounds. Smaller proteins/peptides generally diffuse and act faster.

Mechanistic Evidence Box

Preclinical / mechanistic
Page type
Compound profile
Evidence type
Modulates prostaglandin and leukotriene cascades — anti-inflammatory pathway.
Evidence level
Mechanistic discussion
Drug vs leech
Purified natural compound

Clinical translation limit

Leech eicosanoid-pathway modulation is mechanistic/hypothetical only and does NOT establish clinical anti-inflammatory efficacy. No FDA-approved derivative exists; distinct from FDA-approved cyclooxygenase or leukotriene-pathway drugs.

Molecular Profile

Category
Anti-inflammatory
Evidence tier
Preclinical
Molecular weight
18,000 Da
Source species
Hirudo medicinalis
Leech Eicosanoid Modulator molecular structure

Biological Targets

  • cyclooxygenase, lipoxygenase pathways

External Resources

    Related Anti-inflammatory Compounds

    This website provides educational information and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Medicinal leech therapy carries clinically meaningful risks and should be performed only by qualified clinicians under institutionally approved protocols. FDA 510(k) clearance for medicinal leeches is limited to specific indications; investigational and off-label discussions are labeled accordingly. For patient-specific guidance, consult a qualified healthcare provider.