Stuart factor

Stuart factor, also known as Factor X or FX, is a crucial enzyme in the coagulation cascade that plays a significant role in blood clotting. This protein is synthesized in the liver and requires vitamin K for its activation. The importance of Stuart factor lies in its central position in the coagulation pathway, where it acts as a bridge between the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways, leading to the formation of fibrin, a protein that is essential for blood clotting.

Function

Stuart factor is activated to its active form, Factor Xa, by both the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways of blood coagulation. Once activated, Factor Xa combines with Factor V to form the prothrombinase complex on phospholipid surfaces of platelets. This complex catalyzes the conversion of prothrombin to thrombin, which then converts fibrinogen to fibrin, leading to clot formation. This process is tightly regulated by various inhibitors to prevent excessive clotting that could lead to thrombosis.

Genetic and Clinical Aspects

The gene responsible for the production of Stuart factor is located on the human chromosome 13. Mutations in this gene can lead to Factor X deficiency, a rare bleeding disorder characterized by a propensity to bleed due to the impaired clotting ability. This condition can be inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, meaning that two copies of the mutated gene are necessary for the disorder to manifest.

Patients with Factor X deficiency may present with symptoms ranging from mild to severe bleeding episodes, depending on the level of Factor X activity. Treatment options include fresh frozen plasma or Factor X concentrate to replace the deficient factor and manage bleeding episodes.

History

The discovery of Stuart factor dates back to 1956 when it was identified in a patient named Stuart. The patient exhibited a prolonged prothrombin time, indicating a defect in the extrinsic pathway of coagulation. Further research led to the identification of this factor as a previously unknown component of the blood clotting process, later named Stuart factor in honor of the patient.

See Also

• Coagulation
• Vitamin K
• Hemophilia
• Blood transfusion