Sociedad Americana de Hirudoterapia

Hirudin or hirudin-like factor - that is the question: insights from the analyses of natural and synthetic HLF variants

Research article published in FEBS letters (2020)

Última actualización: March 18, 2026Revisado por: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Desarrollo de fármacosEnsayos clínicosGenómica y proteómicaMüller C et al. · FEBS letters, 2020

Abstract

The hirudin-like factor 1 (HLF1) of Hirudo medicinalis belongs to a new class of leech-derived factors. In previous investigations, HLF1 did not exhibit anticoagulatory activities. Here, we describe the analysis of natural and synthetic variants of HLF1 and HLF-Hyb, a yet uncharacterized member of the HLF family. Modifications within the N terminus of HLF1 have a strong impact on its activity. Some variants of HLF1 exhibit thrombin-inhibiting activity comparable to hirudins, whereas others have reduced or no activity. The analyses of HLF-Hyb variants revealed a strong impact of the central globular domain on activity. Our results indicate a comparable mode of action of hirudins and thrombin-inhibiting HLF variants. Finally, we propose and discuss criteria for classifying hirudins and HLFs.

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

Publication typeJournal Article
Indexed MeSH termsAnimalsHirudinsHumansLeechesMutagenesis, Site-DirectedProtein DomainsProtein EngineeringSalivaThrombin

Resumen

The hirudin-like factor 1 (HLF1) of Hirudo medicinalis belongs to a new class of leech-derived factors. In previous investigations, HLF1 did not exhibit anticoagulatory activities.

Por qué esto importa para la hirudoterapia

Relevant to the development and clinical application of leech-derived pharmaceutical compounds.

Citación

Hirudin or hirudin-like factor - that is the question: insights from the analyses of natural and synthetic HLF variants.

Müller C et al. · FEBS letters, 2020

Contexto clínico relacionado

Añadido a la biblioteca ASH: March 18, 2026 · Última actualización del sitio: March 18, 2026

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