American Society of Hirudotherapy

Ghilanten

Factor Xa inhibitor with anti-metastatic activity in animal cancer models — translational dual-use compound.

Preclinical / mechanisticLast updated: 2026-05-26 · Reviewed by ASH Editorial Board
Molecular weight of Ghilanten 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 kDaGhilanten15 kDa
Molecular weight (kilodaltons) of Ghilanten (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
Factor Xa inhibitor with anti-metastatic activity in animal cancer models — translational dual-use compound.
Evidence level
Preclinical (animal)
Drug vs leech
Purified natural compound
Safety domains
Bleeding

Clinical translation limit

Ghilanten's preclinical anticoagulant and anti-metastatic activity does NOT establish clinical efficacy for any indication. No FDA-approved derivative exists; anti-cancer claims rest on animal models alone.

Molecular Profile

Category
Anticoagulant
Evidence tier
Preclinical
Molecular weight
15,000 Da
Source species
Haementeria ghilianii
Discovered
1990 · Blankenship DT et al.
Ghilanten molecular structure

Biological Targets

  • Factor Xa

Key Citations

  1. Blankenship DT, Brankamp RG, Manley GD, Cardin AD (1990), Biochem Biophys Res Commun · PMID 2306252
  2. Brankamp RG, Manley GG, Blankenship DT, Bowlin TL, Cardin AD (1991), Blood Coagul Fibrinolysis · PMID 1772984

External Resources

    Related Anticoagulant 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.