Factor IX

Factor IX is a protein that plays a crucial role in the blood clotting process. It is one of the serine proteases involved in the coagulation cascade, which is a series of reactions that ultimately leads to the formation of a blood clot. Factor IX is produced in the liver and circulates in the bloodstream in an inactive form until it is needed for clotting.

Function

Factor IX is activated by Factor XIa in the presence of calcium ions and phospholipids. Once activated, Factor IX (now referred to as Factor IXa) interacts with Factor VIII to activate Factor X. This is a critical step in the coagulation cascade, as Factor X goes on to convert prothrombin into thrombin, which then converts fibrinogen into fibrin – the main component of a blood clot.

Clinical significance

Deficiency in Factor IX causes Hemophilia B, also known as Christmas disease. This is a rare genetic disorder that prevents blood from clotting properly, leading to excessive bleeding. Hemophilia B is less common than Hemophilia A, which is caused by a deficiency in Factor VIII.

Treatment for Hemophilia B involves replacing the missing Factor IX. This can be done through infusions of plasma-derived Factor IX, recombinant Factor IX, or a Factor IX concentrate. Gene therapy is also being explored as a potential treatment option.

See also

• Blood clot
• Coagulation
• Hemophilia B
• Factor VIII
• Factor X
• Prothrombin
• Thrombin
• Fibrinogen
• Fibrin

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  Diagram of the coagulation cascade

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  Structure of Factor IX protein

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  Location of the F9 gene on the X chromosome