Recombinant Human Antithrombin III/ATIII protein

Supplementary information

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

Antithrombin III also known as ATIII or antithrombin 3 is a glycoprotein with a mass of approximately 58 kDa. This protein is mainly synthesized in the liver and circulates in the blood plasma. Antithrombin III functions as a serine protease inhibitor targeting and inhibiting several key enzymes involved in blood coagulation including thrombin and Factor Xa. Its activity is influenced by the presence of heparin which increases its inhibitory effects on these enzymes. This interaction is essential for regulating blood clot formation and maintaining hemostatic balance.

Biological function summary

Antithrombin III plays a critical role in blood clotting by specifically inhibiting clotting factors. It forms complexes with its target enzymes leading to their inactivation and preventing excessive thrombin production. The protein does not form part of larger complexes but acts independently to exert its anticoagulant function. The normal range for antithrombin 3 levels in plasma is important for ensuring a balanced blood coagulation system. Its function helps prevent inappropriate clot formation and ensures smooth blood flow through the circulatory system.

Pathways

Antithrombin III is integral to the coagulation cascade. It is primarily involved in the intrinsic and common coagulation pathways where it regulates thrombin and Factor Xa activity. This regulation prevents the unchecked formation of fibrin clots which can lead to thrombosis. ATIII works closely with proteins like heparin cofactor II and protein C which also modulate the coagulation pathway emphasizing its role in maintaining hemostatic balance. Its function is essential in controlling the coagulation cascade and ensuring that it proceeds appropriately without leading to pathology.

Antithrombin III deficiency can lead to coagulation disorders such as thrombophilia characterized by an increased risk of forming clots. Inherited or acquired deficiencies in antithrombin 3 can result in life-threatening thrombotic events. Furthermore liver diseases which affect the production of ATIII can also result in decreased antithrombin activity compounding coagulation problems. Other proteins related to this process include protein S and plasminogen which also play roles in clot regulation and fibrinolysis. Understanding the connection of antithrombin III to these pathways and diseases is important for developing effective therapeutic strategies.