Clotting factors

Definition

Clotting factors are proteins in the blood that help control bleeding by forming blood clots. They work together in a complex cascade to stabilize and stop bleeding from damaged vessels.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. There are 13 main clotting factors, each designated by Roman numerals I through XIII.
2. Clotting factors are primarily produced in the liver and require vitamin K for synthesis.
3. Deficiency or dysfunction of any clotting factor can lead to bleeding disorders such as hemophilia.
4. Anticoagulant drugs often target specific clotting factors to prevent excessive clot formation.
5. Clotting factors interact in a sequence of activation steps known as the coagulation cascade.

Review Questions

• What role do clotting factors play in hemostasis?
• How does a deficiency in clotting factors affect the body?
• Which vitamin is essential for the synthesis of many clotting factors?

Related terms

Anticoagulant: A substance that prevents blood from clotting.

Hemostasis:

The process of stopping bleeding, which involves vascular spasm, platelet plug formation, and coagulation.

Thrombolytic Drugs:

Medications used to dissolve blood clots that have already formed.