Hirudins and hirudin-like factors in Hirudinidae: implications for function and phylogenetic relationships
Research article published in Parasitology research (2016)
Abstract
Haematophagous leeches express a broad variety of bioactive factors that are released from the salivary gland cells into the wound of a host during feeding. Among these, hirudin is probably the best studied factor and, moreover, the only one that has successfully made the transition from nature to clinical use. Many components of the leech saliva still remain either poorly characterized or yet completely unknown. Only recently, a new class of leech-derived factors has been discovered in Hirudo medicinalis, the hirudin-like factors (HLFs). HLFs comprise typical structural features of hirudin but lack others. We were able to verify the expression of HLFs not only in two additional species of the genus Hirudo, but also in Hirudinaria manillensis. Various phylogenetic analyses based on gene and protein sequences support a sister group relationship between hirudins and HLFs. Although potential molecular targets of HLFs remain unknown, the presence of multiple isoforms in individual leeches of different genera points to key functions in the regulation of several processes associated with the blood-sucking life style of leeches.
Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.
Resumen
Haematophagous leeches express a broad variety of bioactive factors that are released from the salivary gland cells into the wound of a host during feeding.
Por qué esto importa para la hirudoterapia
Este estudio investigó las hirudinas y los recientemente descubiertos factores similares a la hirudina (HLF) en especies de Hirudo y Hirudinaria manillensis, confirmando la expresión de HLF más allá de Hirudo medicinalis y estableciendo una relación filogenética de grupo hermano entre las hirudinas y los HLF. Los HLF comparten algunas, pero no todas, las características estructurales de la hirudina, y sus dianas moleculares siguen siendo desconocidas; sin embargo, la presencia de múltiples isoformas entre géneros sugiere papeles clave en el estilo de vida hematófago. Este trabajo es directamente relevante para el ámbito de la ASH, ya que avanza en la comprensión de la diversidad y evolución de las moléculas salivales bioactivas en sanguijuelas hematófagas y apunta a componentes potencialmente no caracterizados del secretoma de la sanguijuela. No obstante, la caracterización funcional de los HLF sigue siendo preliminar, y este estudio no establece implicaciones terapéuticas o clínicas directas.
Citación
Hirudins and hirudin-like factors in Hirudinidae: implications for function and phylogenetic relationships
Mller C et al. · Parasitology research, 2016
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Añadido a la biblioteca ASH: May 27, 2026 · Última actualización del sitio: 18 de junio de 2026