American Society of Hirudotherapy

Linear Peptides Containing d-Leucine with Neuroprotective Activities from the LeechWhitman

Research article published in Journal of natural products (2019)

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Preclinical (animal)Drug DevelopmentZhang ZY et al. · Journal of natural products, 2019

Abstract

Three new linear peptides containing d-leucine, named whitmantides A-C (1-3), were isolated from the dried whole bodies of Whitmania pigra Whitman. Their structures with absolute configurations were elucidated by Edman degradation, mass spectrometry, Marfey's analysis, and solid-phase synthesis. It is the first time that peptides containing d-amino acid in leeches were discovered. Compounds 1-3 displayed neuroprotective activities against oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion injury on Neuro-2a cells. In addition, ex vivo serum stability tests showed that 1-3 were resistant to protease degradation.

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 termsAnimalsLeechesLeucineNeuroprotective AgentsPeptides

Summary

Three new linear peptides containing d-leucine, named whitmantides A-C (-), were isolated from the dried whole bodies ofWhitman.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

This study isolated three new linear peptides containing d-leucine, named whitmantides A–C, from dried whole bodies of the leech Whitmania pigra, marking the first reported discovery of d-amino-acid-containing peptides in leeches. Structures were determined by Edman degradation, mass spectrometry, Marfey's analysis, and solid-phase synthesis. The compounds showed neuroprotective activity against oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion injury in Neuro-2a cells and resisted protease degradation in ex vivo serum stability tests. For ASH's domain, this is a directly relevant characterization of novel bioactive peptides from a leech source with potential neuroprotective application. The caveat is that findings are preclinical and limited to cell-based and serum-stability assays, with no in-vivo or clinical evidence.

Citation

Linear Peptides Containing d-Leucine with Neuroprotective Activities from the LeechWhitman

Zhang ZY et al. · Journal of natural products, 2019

DOI

Added to ASH library: May 27, 2026 · Site last updated: June 18, 2026

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