American Society of Hirudotherapy

Leech VEGF Modulator

Vascular endothelial growth factor pathway modulator — angiogenic and wound-healing implications.

Preclinical / mechanisticLast updated: 2026-05-26 · Reviewed by ASH Editorial Board
Molecular weight of Leech VEGF Modulator 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 VEGF Modulator45 kDa
Molecular weight (kilodaltons) of Leech VEGF Modulator (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
Vascular endothelial growth factor pathway modulator — angiogenic and wound-healing implications.
Evidence level
Mechanistic discussion
Drug vs leech
Purified natural compound

Clinical translation limit

Leech VEGF-pathway modulation is mechanistic/hypothetical and does NOT establish clinical angiogenic or wound-healing efficacy. No FDA-approved derivative exists; distinct from FDA-approved anti-VEGF (bevacizumab, ranibizumab) drugs, which are unrelated humanized monoclonal antibodies.

Molecular Profile

Category
Other
Evidence tier
Preclinical
Molecular weight
45,000 Da
Source species
Hirudo medicinalis
Leech VEGF Modulator molecular structure

Biological Targets

  • VEGF / VEGFR signaling axis

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.