Human Heparin ELISA Kit

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

Heparin also known as unfractionated heparin (UFH) is a glycosaminoglycan with a mass ranging from 3000 to 30000 Daltons. It is expressed in the granules of mast cells and released into the blood to exert its function. Heparin acts mechanically by binding to antithrombin a plasma protein significantly increasing its inhibitory effect on several activated clotting factors including thrombin and factor Xa. This binding results in modulation of the coagulation cascade which is critical for maintaining hemostasis in the body.

Biological function summary

Heparin plays an essential role in the regulation of blood coagulation acting as an anticoagulant. It does not function as part of a multi-protein complex yet its interaction with antithrombin involves a specific pentasaccharide sequence within heparin necessary for the enhancement of antithrombin's activity. This interaction prevents the formation of fibrin clots therefore enabling smooth blood circulation and reducing the risk of thrombosis.

Pathways

Heparin is deeply involved in the coagulation cascade and fibrinolysis. In the coagulation pathway it enhances the inhibitory effect of antithrombin on serine proteases like thrombin and factor Xa which play an important role in clot formation. Its action within this pathway indirectly affects the fibrinolysis pathway by regulating the formation of clots necessitating subsequent breakdown. The protein factor Xa is notably affected by the presence of heparin showcasing its role in these intricate biochemical pathways.

Associated diseases and disorders

Heparin is significantly related to thrombosis and heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). It is used therapeutically to prevent and treat thromboembolic disorders given its ability to inhibit clot formation. However sometimes patients may develop HIT a condition where the immune system forms antibodies against the heparin-platelet factor 4 complex resulting in reduced platelet count and increased risk of thrombosis. The interaction of heparin with platelet factor 4 in this disorder highlights its complex role in disease mechanisms.