Antithrombotic Activity of a Novel C-Terminal Hirudin Analog in Experimental Animals

Abstract

A synthetic hirudin55-65 C-terminal fragment analog was evaluated for anticoagulant activity and in models of experimental thrombosis in mice and rats. Intravenous injection caused dose-related inhibition of thrombin and anticoagulation in rat blood samples, protection from thromboembolism in mice and inhibition of stasis-induced venous thrombosis in rats. Antithrombotic effectiveness corresponded with anticoagulant activity. Anephric animals exhibited longer duration of activity than normal animals suggesting the kidney as a major route of elimination.