Biology of Antithrombins

This publication covers topics related to the biochemistry and clinical significance of the proteins displaying thrombin-inhibiting activity. Only in the past twenty-five years has the biological significance of proteins inhibiting blood coagulation been recognized. These inhibitors play a key role in the regulation of blood coagulation by controlling the activated serine proteinases. Certain proteins, the antithrombins, exert their effect upon thrombin leading to a reduction in the rate of fibrin formation. Important work has been done with thrombosis; chronic liver disease; disseminated intravascular coagulation; thromboembolic episodes during pregnancy, delivery; and oral contraceptive therapy. Substitution of purified, concentrated antithrombin III fractions has proven to be an effective and safe therapy for patients with antithrombin-III deficiencies. This important addition to scientific literature is of value to those of hematology, thrombosis research, transfusion technology and biochemistry.