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Updated: May 24, 2026

Measurement of Factor V Activity in Human Plasma Using a Microplate Coagulation Assay
Published on: September 9, 2012
Plasma factor VII-activating protease antigen levels and activity are increased in ischemic stroke
1Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
Higher levels of Factor VII-activating protease (FSAP) were linked to ischemic stroke (IS) and its subtypes. This suggests FSAP may play a role in the development of IS, regardless of its cause.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
- Vascular Biology
- Stroke Pathophysiology
Background:
- Factor VII-activating protease (FSAP) is a plasma protease involved in hemostasis and vascular remodeling.
- Elevated FSAP levels and activity are observed in deep vein thrombosis patients.
- No prior data existed on plasma FSAP in ischemic stroke (IS).
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if FSAP antigen levels and activity correlate with IS.
- To investigate the association between FSAP and specific etiologic subtypes of IS.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study (SAHLSIS) involving 600 IS patients and 600 controls.
- Plasma FSAP antigen levels and activity measured during the acute phase and 3 months post-stroke.
- Genotyping of 33 single-nucleotide polymorphisms to assess FSAP genetic variations.
Main Results:
- Increased FSAP antigen levels and activity were independently associated with IS at both time points.
- These associations were consistent across all main IS subtypes.
- FSAP genotypes correlated with FSAP plasma levels but not directly with IS.
Conclusions:
- Elevated plasma FSAP antigen levels and activity are linked to IS and its major subtypes.
- FSAP may contribute to the pathophysiology of IS, irrespective of the underlying cause.
- Further research into FSAP's role in stroke is warranted.
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