Factor VII

Factor VII (also known as serum prothrombin conversion accelerator or proconvertin) is one of the proteins that causes blood to clot in the coagulation cascade. It is an enzyme of the serine protease class. The gene for Factor VII is located on chromosome 13 (13q34).

Function

Factor VII is produced in the liver and released into the bloodstream. When an injury occurs and bleeding begins, Factor VII is activated and begins the process of coagulation. Activated Factor VII (FVIIa) starts the coagulation cascade by binding to tissue factor (TF), which is exposed upon injury. The TF/FVIIa complex activates Factor IX and Factor X, which further propagate the coagulation cascade.

Deficiency

A deficiency of Factor VII, known as Factor VII deficiency, is a rare genetic disorder characterized by a lack of Factor VII. This can lead to a bleeding diathesis, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe bleeding. Treatment typically involves replacement therapy with recombinant Factor VII.

Role in disease

Factor VII is also involved in several diseases. High levels of Factor VII are associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease. Additionally, Factor VII is used therapeutically in the treatment of hemophilia, a genetic disorder that impairs the body's ability to make blood clots.

See also

• Coagulation
• Hemophilia
• Factor VII deficiency
• Factor IX
• Factor X

References

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