Factor Ii (Noun)
Meaning
A protein in blood plasma that is the inactive precursor of thrombin.
Classification
Nouns denoting substances.
Examples
- Prothrombin, also known as factor II, is a vitamin K-dependent enzyme that plays a crucial role in the coagulation cascade.
- Factor II is produced in the liver and is released into the bloodstream, where it circulates as an inactive precursor of thrombin.
- In the presence of tissue factor, factor VIIa, and phospholipids, factor II is converted to thrombin, which then catalyzes the formation of fibrin clots.
- Deficiencies in factor II can lead to bleeding disorders, such as hypoprothrombinemia, which is characterized by impaired coagulation and an increased risk of bleeding.
- Warfarin, a commonly used anticoagulant, inhibits the production of factor II and other vitamin K-dependent clotting factors, thereby reducing the risk of thrombosis.