This peptide, originally isolated from the leech Hirudinaria manillensis, is a hirudin-based fibrinogen recognition peptide inhibitor, which binds efficiently to thrombin (IC50= 4.2 uM, in bovine),an enzyme involved in blood clotting.
Hirullin peptide has been studied for its potential therapeutic applications, particularly in the prevention and treatment of thrombotic disorders, such as heart attacks and strokes. It works by binding to thrombin and blocking its activity, thereby preventing the formation of blood clots.