What is factor V?

Factor V is a protein that plays a central role in the blood coagulation system. It acts as a co-factor in the conversion of prothrombin to thrombin, an enzyme responsible for the formation of fibrin, the main component of blood clots. In its activated form (Factor Va), Factor V accelerates the clotting cascade and helps to stop bleeding. Normal regulation of factor V is crucial for the balance between blood clotting and bleeding tendency.

What is prothrombin (factor II)?

Prothrombin, also known as factor II, is another important protein in the blood clotting cascade. It is produced in the liver and released into the blood. In the final step of the coagulation cascade, prothrombin is converted into thrombin by enzymes such as factor Xa and factor Va. Thrombin plays a key role in the conversion of fibrinogen into fibrin, which forms a stable blood clot. Prothrombin is therefore of central importance for effective blood clotting and wound healing.

Good to know

Did you know that around 5% of the European population are carriers of the factor V Leiden mutation? Despite this high proportion, only a few actually develop thrombosis, which shows how complex the interplay of genetics and environmental factors is.

Thromboses and their influencing factors

A thrombosis occurs when a blood clot forms in a blood vessel and obstructs the blood flow. Various factors can increase the risk of thrombosis. In addition to genetic predispositions such as the factor V Leiden mutation and the prothrombin mutation, environmental factors also play a role. Prolonged sitting, e.g. on long flights, dehydration, obesity, smoking and certain medications such as oral contraceptives increase the risk. In addition, health conditions such as heart failure, certain cancers and autoimmune diseases can further increase the risk of thrombosis. Understanding these factors is crucial to developing effective prevention strategies and preventing thrombosis.

What does genetics have to do with it?