American Society of Hirudotherapy

Saratin-3

Collagen-binding antiplatelet variant from the Hirudo medicinalis sialotranscriptome — paralog of saratin and saratin-2.

Preclinical / mechanisticLast updated: 2026-05-26 · Reviewed by ASH Editorial Board
Molecular weight of Saratin-3 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 kDaSaratin-312 kDa
Molecular weight (kilodaltons) of Saratin-3 (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
Collagen-binding antiplatelet variant from the Hirudo medicinalis sialotranscriptome — paralog of saratin and saratin-2.
Evidence level
In vitro
Drug vs leech
Purified natural compound
Safety domains
Bleeding

Clinical translation limit

Saratin-3's in silico / in vitro antiplatelet characterization does NOT establish clinical efficacy. No FDA-approved derivative exists and the variant has not been functionally distinguished from saratin in vivo.

Molecular Profile

Category
Antiplatelet
Evidence tier
Preclinical
Molecular weight
12,000 Da
Source species
Hirudo medicinalis
Discovered
2018
Saratin-3 molecular structure

Biological Targets

  • collagen (vWF / GPVI-mediated platelet adhesion)

External Resources

    Related Antiplatelet 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.