In: Anatomy and Physiology
Consider heparin, antithrombin, prostacyclin, and coumadin. What function do these factors have in common?
A. initiation of coagulation
B. stabilization of fibrin clot
C. prevention of coagulation
Option C is correct. Prevention of Coagulation
EXPALNATION
Heparin:- It is naturally occurring anticoagulant formed by mast and basophil cells. It prevents the formation of clots and existing clots in the blood in theraputic doses, where it acts like an anticoagulant. It does not break the clots that have been formed but help in the smooth functioning of natural clotlyosis.
Antithrombin:- It is a protein which inactivates many enzymes of the coagulation system. It's functioning can be increasedmany fold by using heparin.
prostacyclin:- It is a prostaglandin member of the eicosanoid family of lipid molecules. It inhibits platelet activation and is also an effective vasodilator. therefore it acts strongly as non coagulating. It is also called epoprostenol, when taken as drug.
coumadin:- It is used as anticoagulant which means blood thinner. Basically used in the treatment of blood cloting like deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. It is also used to prevent stroke in people who have atrial fibrillation, valvular heart disease or artificial heart valves.