Leupeptin
Also known as: Ac-Leu-Leu-Arg-al, Acetyl-leupeptin, Leupeptin, Leupeptin hemisulfate, N-Acetyl-L-leucyl-L-leucyl-L-argininal, N‑acetyl‑L‑leucyl‑L‑leucyl‑L‑argininal
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Summary
Leupeptin is a tetrapeptide aldehyde (N‑acetyl‑L‑leucyl‑L‑leucyl‑L‑argininal) that potently inhibits a broad range of proteases and is widely used as a laboratory reagent to prevent proteolysis during protein extraction and purification.
Mechanism of Action
Reversible inhibition of cysteine and serine proteases by forming a covalent hemiacetal with the active‑site nucleophile (aldehyde warhead).
Routes of Administration
Goals & Uses
- Experimental neuroprotection modelPreclinical ResearchLow
- Autophagy researchResearch ToolHigh
- Cathepsin inhibitionResearch ToolHigh
- Calpain inhibitionResearch ToolHigh
- Protease inhibition in cell lysatesResearch/biochemistryHigh
Contraindications
- Human therapeutic useRegulatory/safetyHigh
Adverse Effects
- Cytotoxicity at high concentrationsIn Vitro ToxicityUncommon
- Non-specific protease inhibitionOff Target EffectCommon
Drug Interactions
- E-64 / E64dLow
- PMSF (phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride)Low
Population Constraints
- All human populationsGeneralAbsolute
Regulatory Status
- European UnionUnapprovedNo EMA approval; available only as a research chemical.
- United StatesUnapprovedResearch reagent only; no FDA approval or IND filing on record.
- United KingdomUnapprovedNo MHRA approval; research use only.
Not approved for clinical use; classified as a research chemical.
Evidence & Sources
No sources recorded yet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Leupeptin?
Leupeptin is a tetrapeptide aldehyde (N‑acetyl‑L‑leucyl‑L‑leucyl‑L‑argininal) that potently inhibits a broad range of proteases and is widely used as a laboratory reagent to prevent proteolysis during protein extraction and purification.
What is Leupeptin used for?
Leupeptin is educationally associated with: Experimental neuroprotection model, Autophagy research, Cathepsin inhibition, Calpain inhibition, Protease inhibition in cell lysates. Educational only — not medical advice.
How is Leupeptin administered?
Recorded routes of administration: In Vitro, Intraperitoneal.
What are the potential side effects of Leupeptin?
Reported adverse effects include: Cytotoxicity at high concentrations, Non-specific protease inhibition. This list is not exhaustive — consult a qualified clinician.
Who should avoid Leupeptin?
Recorded contraindications: Human therapeutic use. Consult a qualified clinician before use.