22. Leech: Blood Clot Prevention
Medicinal leeches produce hirudin in their saliva, which prevents blood clotting by inhibiting thrombin. Pharmaceutical companies created synthetic versions called lepirudin and bivalirudin. Surgeons use these anticoagulants during heart procedures, especially when patients can’t tolerate standard heparin. Though ancient physicians used actual leeches, modern medicine prefers the consistent synthetic compounds. Their precise targeting of thrombin reduces bleeding risks compared to some other anticoagulants.