American Society of Hirudotherapy

Draft Genome of Hirudo medicinalis — BMC Genomics

Complete genomic resource for the medicinal leech with functional annotation

Last Updated: March 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Genomics & ProteomicsSalivary PharmacologyKvist S et al. · BMC Genomics, 2020

Summary

Draft genome assembly of Hirudo medicinalis published in BMC Genomics, providing extensive functional annotation and gene prediction. Complementary to the chromosome-level assembly in Scientific Reports, this resource offers deeper gene-level analysis including salivary gland-expressed gene families.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

Expands the genomic toolkit available for leech research beyond the chromosome-level assembly. The functional annotations enable identification of candidate therapeutic genes and inform comparative genomics across leech species used in clinical practice.

Citation

Draft Genome of the Medicinal Leech Hirudo medicinalis

Kvist S et al. · BMC Genomics, 2020

Added to ASH library: March 18, 2026 · Site last updated: March 18, 2026

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.

Draft Genome of Hirudo medicinalis — BMC Genomics | ASH