hirudin

/ˈhaɪruːdɪn/

Definitions

1. noun

A leech, especially a medicinal leech.

“The hirudin was used to help restore blood flow to the patient’s wound.”

2. noun

A protein found in the saliva of leeches, which has anticoagulant properties.

“Hirudin is a key component in the development of new anticoagulant medications.”

Synonyms

  • leech
  • medicinal leech

Antonyms

  • anticoagulant inhibitor