Coagulation factor X (human)

Coagulation factor X, also known as Stuart-Prower factor, is an essential enzyme in the blood coagulation pathway. It is a serine endopeptidase (protease group S1, PA clan).

Function

Coagulation factor X is synthesized in the liver and requires vitamin K for its production. It plays a pivotal role in the coagulation cascade, where it is activated by either factor IX (in the intrinsic pathway) or factor VII (in the extrinsic pathway) to become factor Xa. Factor Xa then interacts with coagulation factor II (prothrombin) to produce thrombin, which leads to the formation of a blood clot.

Clinical significance

Deficiency of factor X is very rare and is typically inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. This condition, known as factor X deficiency or Stuart-Prower factor deficiency, can lead to a bleeding disorder due to impaired blood clotting. Symptoms can include easy bruising, prolonged bleeding from minor wounds, and in severe cases, spontaneous bleeding into joints and muscles.

Factor X is also the target of various anticoagulant drugs, such as direct factor Xa inhibitors. These medications are used to prevent blood clots in conditions like deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, as well as to prevent stroke in people with atrial fibrillation.

See also

• Blood coagulation
• Coagulation factor II
• Vitamin K