American Society of Hirudotherapy

Research progress on the treatment of diabetic nephropathy with leech and its active ingredients

Comprehensive review published in Frontiers in Endocrinology (2024)

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Narrative reviewSalivary PharmacologyDrug DevelopmentTian F et al. · Frontiers in endocrinology, 2024

Abstract

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a major microvascular complication of diabetes and a common cause of chronic kidney disease. There is currently a lack of effective treatments for DN, and the prognosis for patients remains poor. Hirudin, one of the primary active components derived from leeches, demonstrates anti-coagulant, anti-fibrotic, anti-thrombotic, and anti-inflammatory properties, exhibiting significant protective effects on the kidneys. In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in studying the potential benefits of hirudin, especially in its role in the management of DN. This article delves into the mechanisms by which hirudin contributes to the treatment of DN and its clinical efficacy.

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

Publication typeJournal ArticleReviewResearch Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Indexed MeSH termsAnimalsHumansDiabetic NephropathiesHirudinsKidneyMedicine, Chinese TraditionalLeechesDiabetes Mellitus

Summary

Reviews preclinical evidence for medicinal leech and its active ingredients (hirudin variants, peptides) in treatment of diabetic nephropathy across multiple animal models.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

This review article examines the mechanisms by which hirudin, identified as a primary active component derived from leeches with anti-coagulant, anti-fibrotic, anti-thrombotic, and anti-inflammatory properties, may contribute to the treatment of diabetic nephropathy and its clinical efficacy. It discusses the lack of effective current treatments for diabetic nephropathy and the growing interest in hirudin's renoprotective potential. For ASH's domain, this is directly relevant as it surveys hirudin's therapeutic relevance beyond anticoagulation, specifically for renal protection in diabetes. Caveat: the abstract provides no specific quantitative data, primary study results, or critical appraisal of evidence quality; as a narrative review, its conclusions cannot be independently verified from the abstract alone.

Citation

Research progress on the treatment of diabetic nephropathy with leech and its active ingredients.

Tian F et al. · Frontiers in endocrinology, 2024

DOI

Added to ASH library: May 27, 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.