Tissue Factor
Tissue Factor (TF) is a protein found on the surfaces of most cells in the body, particularly in tissues containing cells of the immune system. It plays a key role in the initiation of the coagulation cascade, a pathway of enzymatic reactions which ultimately lead to the formation of a blood clot. TF binds to and activates Factor VII, one of the proteins involved in this process, initiating a series of enzymatic reactions that result in the production of thrombin and fibrin, which together form the clot. TF is an important part of maintaining the body’s homeostasis, as it is involved in the process of wound healing and protection from bleeding and infection. Abnormalities in TF can lead to thrombosis, a condition characterized by the formation of blood clots and which can cause serious cardiovascular complications. TF has also been used in research to understand the pathways of inflammation and to develop novel therapies for conditions such as cancer, stroke and trauma.
← Journal of Thrombosis and treatments