American Society of Hirudotherapy

LAPP-2 (Leech Anti-Platelet Protein, Isoform 2)

Isoform of LAPP — collagen-binding inhibitor of platelet adhesion.

Preclinical / mechanisticLast updated: 2026-05-26 · Reviewed by ASH Editorial Board
Molecular weight of LAPP-2 (Leech Anti-Platelet Protein, Isoform 2) 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 kDaLAPP-2 (Leech Anti-Platelet P…13 kDa
Molecular weight (kilodaltons) of LAPP-2 (Leech Anti-Platelet Protein, Isoform 2) (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
Isoform of LAPP — collagen-binding inhibitor of platelet adhesion.
Evidence level
In vitro
Drug vs leech
Purified natural compound
Safety domains
Bleeding

Clinical translation limit

LAPP-2 is documented mechanistically only; no human evidence. In vitro inhibition of platelet adhesion does NOT establish clinical efficacy, and no FDA-approved derivative exists.

Molecular Profile

Category
Antiplatelet
Evidence tier
Preclinical
Molecular weight
13,000 Da
Source species
Haementeria officinalis
Discovered
2010
LAPP-2 (Leech Anti-Platelet Protein, Isoform 2) molecular structure

Biological Targets

  • collagen (platelet-collagen adhesion)
  • GPVI

External Resources

    Related Antiplatelet 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.