American Society of Hirudotherapy

High-yield novel leech hyaluronidase to expedite the preparation of specific hyaluronan oligomers

Research article published in Scientific reports (2014)

Last Updated: March 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Genomics & ProteomicsSalivary PharmacologyJin P et al. · Scientific reports, 2014

Abstract

Hyaluronidases (HAases), particularly leech HAases, have attracted intense attention due to their broad applications in medical treatments and great potential for the enzymatic production of hyaluronan oligosaccharides. However, little is known about this third interesting family of HAases. Here, we applied the random amplification of cDNA ends polymerase chain reaction (RACE-PCR) approach to identify the first leech HAase-encoding gene. By combining protein engineering and high-density culture, we achieved high-level production (8.42 × 10(5) U ml(-1)) in the yeast Pichia pastoris secretory expression system. Compared with the commercial bovine testicular HAase, the recombinant leech HAase exhibited superior enzymatic properties. Furthermore, analysis of the hydrolytic process suggested that this novel enzyme adopts a nonprocessive endolytic mode, yielding a narrow-spectrum of specific HA oligosaccharides with different incubation times. Large-scale production of this novel leech HAase will not only greatly promote medical applications but also facilitate the enzymatic production of specific HA oligosaccharides.

Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.

Publication typeJournal ArticleResearch Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Indexed MeSH termsAnimalsCattleDNA, ComplementaryHyaluronic AcidHyaluronoglucosaminidaseHydrolysisLeechesMolecular Sequence DataOligosaccharidesPichia

Summary

Hyaluronidases (HAases), particularly leech HAases, have attracted intense attention due to their broad applications in medical treatments and great potential for the enzymatic production of hyaluronan oligosaccharides.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

Expands the genomic and molecular understanding of medicinal leeches and their bioactive repertoire.

Citation

High-yield novel leech hyaluronidase to expedite the preparation of specific hyaluronan oligomers.

Jin P et al. · Scientific reports, 2014

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.

High-yield novel leech hyaluronidase to expedite the preparation of specific hyaluronan oligomers | ASH