Protein c and protein s

Protein c and protein s

1. PROTEIN C AND PROTEIN S SURAMYA BABU

2. Protein C and protein S are two proteins in the blood that help regulate blood clot formation Often these two test are performed together as part of investigation of a possible excessive clotting disorder. The test measure the amount of each protein ( antigen tests) and evaluate whether they are performing their proper functions

3. Protein S act as principle cofactor to protein C They work together to help regulate and control blood clot formation by inactivating coagulation factors (factor V and factor VIII) that required to generate and form blood clots. This has a net effect on slowing down clot formation . therefor, if there is not enough protein C or protein S or they are not functioning normally, clot formation can go unchecked , possibly leading to excessive clotting . These conditions can range from mild to severe,

4. There are two types of inherited protein C deficiencies TYPE I : due to insufficient quantity TYPE II : due to abnormal function (it is less common than type I)

5. Protein S exists in two forms in blood free and bound to another protein, but only the free protein S is available to be a cofactor for protein C. 3 types of inherited protein S deficiencies: TYPE I : due t insufficient quantity TYPE II : due to abnormal function TYPE III : due to decreased free protein S levels , though total protein S levels are normal

6. Normal activity and level of protein C and protein S usually indicate adequate clotting regulation Low protein C or protein S level or activity indicates blood clotting is not sufficiently regulated and there is an increased risk of developing a clot that blocks the flow of blood in the veins

7. Acquired deficiencies Both proteins are produced in liver and depend on Vitamin K. Therefore, low levels may be due to ; Liver disease Vitamin K deficiency Warfarin anticoagulant therapy (a vitamin K antagonist ) DIC Infections Inflammmation Kidney disease Chemotherapy HIV Pregnancy

8. Inherited deficiencies Decreased production of protein C or protein S Abnormal protein C or S that cannot function normally Abnormal protein S that is cleared more rapidly by the body ( type 3 deficiency)