LDTI (Leech-Derived Tryptase Inhibitor)
Selective inhibitor of human mast cell tryptase — anti-inflammatory pathway.
Preclinical / mechanisticLast updated: 2026-05-26 · Reviewed by ASH Editorial Board
Mechanistic Evidence Box
Preclinical / mechanistic- Page type
- Compound profile
- Evidence type
- Selective inhibitor of human mast cell tryptase — anti-inflammatory pathway.
- Evidence level
- In vitro
- Drug vs leech
- Purified natural compound
Clinical translation limit
LDTI's in vitro inhibition of mast cell tryptase does not establish clinical anti-inflammatory or anti-allergic efficacy. No FDA-approved derivative exists. Mechanism is preclinical/biochemical only.
Molecular Profile
- Category
- Proteinase Inhibitor
- Evidence tier
- Preclinical
- Molecular weight
- 5,000 Da
- Source species
- Hirudo medicinalis
- Discovered
- 1994 · Sommerhoff et al.
- PDB structures
- 1AN1
Biological Targets
- → mast cell tryptase
Key Citations
- Sommerhoff CP et al. (1994), Biol Chem Hoppe-Seyler
External Resources
Related Proteinase Inhibitor Compounds
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Eglin C
Potent inhibitor of human leukocyte elastase and cathepsin G — anti-inflammatory protein widely used as research tool.
Bdellin B3
Kazal-type proteinase inhibitor targeting trypsin and plasmin — modulates inflammatory cascade.
LCI (Leech Carboxypeptidase Inhibitor)
Inhibitor of TAFI (thrombin-activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor) — synergizes with hirudin's anticoagulant action.