American Society of Hirudotherapy

Leech Thrombomodulin-binding factor

Modulates the thrombin-thrombomodulin axis — implications for protein C pathway.

Preclinical / mechanisticLast updated: 2026-05-26 · Reviewed by ASH Editorial Board
Molecular weight of Leech Thrombomodulin-binding factor 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 Thrombomodulin-binding …11 kDa
Molecular weight (kilodaltons) of Leech Thrombomodulin-binding factor (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 the thrombin-thrombomodulin axis — implications for protein C pathway.
Evidence level
Mechanistic discussion
Drug vs leech
Purified natural compound
Safety domains
Bleeding

Clinical translation limit

The reported thrombomodulin-binding activity is mechanistic only and does NOT establish clinical anticoagulant efficacy. No FDA-approved derivative exists; distinct from recombinant human thrombomodulin (ART-123/thrombomodulin alfa) developed by Asahi Kasei for DIC.

Molecular Profile

Category
Anticoagulant
Evidence tier
Preclinical
Molecular weight
11,000 Da
Source species
Hirudo medicinalis
Leech Thrombomodulin-binding factor molecular structure

Biological Targets

  • thrombomodulin / thrombin / Protein C axis

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.