Ixodegrin (leech homolog)

Platelet GP IIb/IIIa antagonist family member — RGD-motif containing.

Preclínico / mecanísticoLast updated: 2026-05-26 · Reviewed by ASH Editorial Board

Molecular weight (kilodaltons) of Ixodegrin (leech homolog) (highlighted) alongside other characterized leech salivary compounds. Smaller proteins/peptides generally diffuse and act faster.

Mechanistic Evidence Box

Preclinical / mechanistic

Page type: Compound profile
Evidence type: Platelet GP IIb/IIIa antagonist family member — RGD-motif containing.
Evidence level: Mechanistic discussion
Drug vs leech: Purified natural compound
Safety domains: Bleeding

Clinical translation limit

Ixodegrin's RGD-motif-based platelet antagonism is mechanistic only. No clinical evidence and no FDA-approved derivative exists.

Molecular Profile

Category: Antiplatelet
Evidence tier: Preclinical
Molecular weight: 8,000 Da
Source species: Hirudo medicinalis (RGD-domain protein)

Ixodegrin (leech homolog) molecular structure

Biological Targets

→ platelet integrin αIIbβ3

External Resources

Related Antiplatelet Compounds

Calin

Anti-platelet adhesion protein that blocks von Willebrand factor–collagen binding.

Saratin

Anti-platelet adhesion protein blocking collagen-mediated platelet activation.

Decorsin

RGD-containing peptide inhibiting platelet GP IIb/IIIa receptor — eptifibatide ancestor.

Ornatin

RGD-peptide GP IIb/IIIa antagonist — sister molecule to decorsin from a different leech species.

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