Prothrombin

Prothrombin (also known as factor II) is a protein produced by the liver and is one of the key components in the coagulation process. It is a glycoprotein that is converted into thrombin during the coagulation process, which in turn converts fibrinogen into fibrin, leading to blood clot formation.

Structure

Prothrombin is a single chain glycoprotein of about 72,000 daltons. The protein is composed of 579 amino acids, including a 24-amino acid signal peptide, which is cleaved during the process of secretion from the liver cells.

Function

The primary function of prothrombin is to catalyze the conversion of fibrinogen into fibrin, the building block of a hemostatic plug. In addition, it also stimulates platelet activation and aggregation via activation of protease-activated receptors on the cell membrane of the platelet.

Role in disease

Deficiency of prothrombin can lead to a bleeding disorder called hypoprothrombinemia, which can be either inherited or acquired. Inherited hypoprothrombinemia is a rare genetic disorder, while the acquired form can be caused by Vitamin K deficiency, liver disease, or treatment with anticoagulant drugs.

See also

• Coagulation
• Thrombin
• Fibrin
• Hemostasis
• Hypoprothrombinemia

References

Prothrombin Resources
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