Hüübimisvalk

Hüübimisvalk, also known as coagulation factor, is a group of proteins that play a crucial role in the process of blood clotting, or hemostasis. These proteins circulate in the blood in an inactive form and are activated in a specific sequence when a blood vessel is injured. This sequential activation forms a cascade, where each activated factor triggers the activation of the next, ultimately leading to the formation of a stable fibrin clot. This clot effectively stops bleeding by plugging the damaged vessel.

There are numerous coagulation factors, each designated by a Roman numeral, from Factor I (fibrinogen) to Factor XIII (fibrin-stabilizing factor). Some factors, like Factor VIII and Factor IX, are also known as antihemophilic factors, and deficiencies in these can lead to hemophilia, a bleeding disorder. The coagulation cascade is a complex and tightly regulated process. A balance between procoagulant and anticoagulant factors is essential for preventing excessive clotting (thrombosis) or insufficient clotting. The discovery and understanding of these factors have been vital in the diagnosis and treatment of bleeding and clotting disorders.