Leech Nitric Oxide Synthase Modulator
Modulates host NOS activity at bite site — contributes to vasodilation phase of feeding.
Preclínico / mecanísticoLast updated: 2026-05-26 · Reviewed by ASH Editorial Board
Mechanistic Evidence Box
Preclinical / mechanistic- Page type
- Compound profile
- Evidence type
- Modulates host NOS activity at bite site — contributes to vasodilation phase of feeding.
- Evidence level
- Mechanistic discussion
- Drug vs leech
- Leech-derived crude extract
Clinical translation limit
The vasodilatory role of leech NOS modulation at the bite site is mechanistic only and does not establish clinical efficacy for any vasodilation-related indication. No FDA-approved derivative exists.
Molecular Profile
- Category
- Vasodilator
- Evidence tier
- Preclinical
- Molecular weight
- 22,000 Da
- Source species
- Hirudo medicinalis
Biological Targets
- → nitric oxide synthase (NOS) pathway
External Resources
Related Vasodilator Compounds
Leech Histamine-like Vasodilator
Histamine-receptor-acting compound — contributes to local vasodilation at feeding site.
Leech Acetylcholine
Cholinergic vasodilator contributing to feeding-site vascular dilation.
Leech Bradykinin Modulator
Salivary factor reported to modulate the bradykinin / kinin-kallikrein vasoactive cascade.
Shuxuetong (SXT) Injection Active Peptides
Three angiogenic peptides (DSYVGDEAQSKR, YNELRVAPEEHP, IQFLPEGSPVTM) from a leech + earthworm Shuxuetong (SXT) injection — Sun 2022 hindlimb-ischemia model.