# Identification and bioinformatics analysis of a novel member of the lumbrokinase gene family in earthworms

## TL;DR

This study identifies a new lumbrokinase gene in earthworms, which could lead to better antithrombotic drugs for stroke and heart disease.

## Contribution

The discovery of a novel lumbrokinase gene, LUKA, expands the genetic diversity of this antithrombotic protein family.

## Key findings

- LUKA was cloned from Eisenia andrei using homologous sequence methods.
- Phylogenetic analysis revealed LUKA has distinct amino acid sites compared to other lumbrokinases.
- LUKA has a high proportion of valine and serine, suggesting structural stability.

## Abstract

Lumbrokinase is a novel antithrombotic drug isolated and purified from earthworms and used in the treatment of stroke and cardiovascular disease. However, to date, there has been no systematic classification of lumbrokinase genes.

In this study, a new member of the lumbrokinase gene family LUKA, which has not yet been reported, was cloned from Eisenia andrei by a homologous sequence method. The full-length cDNA sequence of LUKA was obtained through second-generation sequencing. The gene and protein were analyzed using various bioinformatics software tools.

The molecular formula of LUKA was C1347H2068N360O419S18, indicating it is a stable protein. The amino acid sequence of LUKA contained high proportion of valine (10.2%) and serine (9.2%) and possessed a peptide signal along with the corresponding cleavage site.

Phylogenetic analysis showed that LUKA has multiple distinct amino acid sites compared with other lumbrokinases and represents a rare type of lumbrokinase. This study provides a new genetic material of rare lumbrokinase types.