American Society of Hirudotherapy

Leech Thrombospondin-Like Protein

Thrombospondin-type repeat (TSR)-domain protein identified in leech salivary transcriptome — putative platelet / matrix interactor.

Preclinical / mechanisticLast updated: 2026-05-26 · Reviewed by ASH Editorial Board
Molecular weight of Leech Thrombospondin-Like Protein 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 kDaLHyal (Leech Hyaluronidase)50 kDa
Molecular weight (kilodaltons) of Leech Thrombospondin-Like Protein (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
Thrombospondin-type repeat (TSR)-domain protein identified in leech salivary transcriptome — putative platelet / matrix interactor.
Evidence level
Mechanistic discussion
Drug vs leech
Purified natural compound
Safety domains
Bleeding

Clinical translation limit

This protein is identified at the sequence level only. Hypothesized platelet / ECM interactions are NOT clinically validated. No FDA-approved derivative exists.

Molecular Profile

Category
Antiplatelet
Evidence tier
Preclinical
Molecular weight
50,000 Da
Source species
Hirudo medicinalis
Discovered
2018
Leech Thrombospondin-Like Protein molecular structure

Biological Targets

  • → platelet thrombospondin-binding receptors (predicted)

External Resources

    Related Antiplatelet Compounds

    Calin

    Anti-platelet adhesion protein that blocks von Willebrand factor–collagen binding.

    Saratin

    Anti-platelet adhesion protein blocking collagen-mediated platelet activation.

    Decorsin

    RGD-containing peptide inhibiting platelet GP IIb/IIIa receptor — eptifibatide ancestor.

    Ornatin

    RGD-peptide GP IIb/IIIa antagonist — sister molecule to decorsin from a different leech species.

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    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.