American Society of Hirudotherapy

Hirudin variants production by genetic engineered microbial factory

Research article published in Biotechnology & genetic engineering reviews (2018)

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Narrative reviewDrug DevelopmentZhang J, Lan N · Biotechnology & genetic engineering reviews, 2018

Abstract

Hirudin was discovered as an active anticoagulant in leech extracts almost 60 years ago. Since their initial discovery, hirudin and its variants have been produced with various anti-thrombotic, cancer cell inhibition, diabetic cataract treatment and anti-fatigue activities. Some hirudin variants have been approved for clinical use and released into the marketplace. Recent progress has seen made in relation to hirudin variants expressed in several well-established microbial hosts, including Escherichia coli, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Pichia pastoris and others, with high levels of activity and yield. This review summarizes the current progress on hirudin production using microbial producers, and considers the outlook for future development.

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

Publication typeJournal ArticleReview
Indexed MeSH termsAnimalsAntineoplastic AgentsEscherichia coliFibrinolytic AgentsGenetic EngineeringGenetic VariationHirudinsHumansPichiaRecombinant ProteinsSaccharomyces cerevisiae

Summary

Hirudin was discovered as an active anticoagulant in leech extracts almost 60 years ago. Since their initial discovery, hirudin and its variants have been produced with various anti-thrombotic, cancer cell inhibition, diabetic cataract treatment and anti-fatigue activities.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

This review summarizes progress in producing hirudin — discovered as an anticoagulant in leech extracts — and its variants via genetically engineered microbial hosts including Escherichia coli, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Pichia pastoris. For ASH's domain, recombinant hirudin production is relevant as a biotechnological route to a leech-derived anticoagulant, with the abstract noting reported activities including antithrombotic, cancer cell inhibition, diabetic cataract treatment, and anti-fatigue effects, and some variants approved for clinical use. However, as a review, it synthesizes existing literature without presenting new experimental data, and it does not address hirudotherapy practice or the broader leech salivary secretome.

Citation

Hirudin variants production by genetic engineered microbial factory.

Zhang J, Lan N · Biotechnology & genetic engineering reviews, 2018

DOI

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