Linear Peptides Containing d-Leucine with Neuroprotective Activities from the LeechWhitman
Research article published in 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.
Resumen
Three new linear peptides containing d-leucine, named whitmantides A-C (-), were isolated from the dried whole bodies ofWhitman.
Por qué esto importa para la hirudoterapia
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.
Citación
Linear Peptides Containing d-Leucine with Neuroprotective Activities from the LeechWhitman
Zhang ZY et al. · Journal of natural products, 2019
Contexto clínico relacionado
Explore cómo esta investigación se conecta con la práctica clínica
Añadido a la biblioteca ASH: May 27, 2026 · Última actualización del sitio: June 18, 2026