American Society of Hirudotherapy

H. medicinalis Saliva Mass-Spectrometry Re-Characterization (2024)

2024 reproteomic re-characterisation of medicinal-leech saliva extending the Babenko 2020 proteome — Polishchuk 2024.

Preclinical / mechanisticLast updated: 2026-05-28 · Reviewed by ASH Editorial Board

Mechanistic Evidence Box

Preclinical / mechanistic
Page type
Compound profile
Evidence type
2024 reproteomic re-characterisation of medicinal-leech saliva extending the Babenko 2020 proteome — Polishchuk 2024.
Evidence level
Mechanistic discussion
Drug vs leech
Leech-derived crude extract

Clinical translation limit

Descriptive proteomic inventory does NOT establish clinical efficacy. Individual factors require independent functional + clinical characterization. The K040187 device clearance covers whole-leech device use, not isolated proteins.

Molecular Profile

Category
Other
Evidence tier
Preclinical
Source species
Hirudo medicinalis
Discovered
2024 · Polishchuk SN et al.
H. medicinalis Saliva Mass-Spectrometry Re-Characterization (2024) molecular structure

Biological Targets

  • composite secreted-saliva proteome catalogue (multi-target)

Key Citations

  1. Ayhan H et al. (2024), Immunol Res · PMID 39671012

External Resources

    Related Other 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.