Research progress in the use of leeches for medical purposes

Leeches are invertebrates that have a long history of application in the development of human medicine in both the East and the West. This paper comprehensively analyzes and evaluates current research and the latest progress with regard to the application of leeches, their medical value, and their application prospects from various perspectives, so as to provide a reference for new viewpoints and directions for research on leeches. Modern research has revealed that leeches contain various bioactive components, which have pharmacological effects such as anticoagulation, antithrombosis, blood viscosity reduction, and antiatherosclerosis. Leech therapy is an important treatment approach for venous congestion after microsurgery and is also an effective adjuvant treatment for diabetic feet, chronic pain, and tumors. Therefore, leeches are of importance for the research and development of new drugs, the restoration of blood supply after surgery, and the adjuvant treatment of diseases accompanied by blood blocking. In addition, leeches can also be used as model organisms for research in evolutionary biology and invertebrate neurophysiology as well as in neurophysiological, behavioral, and functional studies.