Coagulation cascade

Coagulation Cascade

The Coagulation Cascade (pronunciation: koh-ag-yuh-ley-shuhn kas-keyd) is a complex biological process involving the transformation of blood from a liquid to a gel, forming a blood clot. This process is crucial in the body's ability to repair injured blood vessels.

Etymology

The term "Coagulation" originates from the Latin word "coagulare," meaning "to cause to curdle." "Cascade" is derived from the Italian word "cascata," which means "waterfall." The term "Coagulation Cascade" metaphorically represents a series of chemical reactions that occur in a step-by-step manner, similar to a waterfall's sequential flow.

Process

The Coagulation Cascade is initiated when the endothelium (the inner lining of blood vessels) is damaged, exposing the underlying tissue factor. This triggers two pathways: the intrinsic pathway and the extrinsic pathway, both of which lead to the common pathway.

The Intrinsic Pathway is initiated by the activation of Factor XII (Hageman factor). This activation triggers a series of reactions involving Factor XI, Factor IX, and Factor VIII, leading to the activation of Factor X.

The Extrinsic Pathway begins with the release of tissue factor from the damaged endothelium. Tissue factor binds with Factor VII, activating Factor X.

The Common Pathway is where the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways converge. Activated Factor X (with the help of Factor V) converts prothrombin into thrombin. Thrombin then converts fibrinogen into fibrin, forming a blood clot.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Coagulation cascade
Wikipedia's article - Coagulation cascade

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Coagulation cascade