Transient Expression of Lumbrokinase (PI239) in Tobacco Using a Geminivirus-Based Single Replicon System Dissolves Fibrin and Blood Clots.

Lumbrokinases, a group of fibrinolytic enzymes extracted from earthworm, have been widely used to prevent and treat various cardiovascular diseases. They specifically target fibrin to effectively degrade thrombi without major side effects. Plant expression systems are becoming potential alternative expression platforms for producing pharmaceutical proteins.

Recombinant protein production of earthworm lumbrokinase for potential antithrombotic application.

Earthworms have been used as a traditional medicine in China, Japan, and other Far East countries for thousands of years. Oral administration of dry earthworm powder is considered as a potent and effective supplement for supporting healthy blood circulation. Lumbrokinases are a group of enzymes that were isolated and purified from different species of earthworms.