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Updated: May 2, 2026

Measurement of Factor V Activity in Human Plasma Using a Microplate Coagulation Assay
Published on: September 9, 2012
A potential anti-coagulant role of complement factor H
Janez Ferluga1, Uday Kishore2, Robert B Sim3
1Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK; Centre for Infection, Immunity and Disease Mechanisms, Biosciences, Heinz Wolff Building, Brunel University, London UB8 3PH, UK.
Complement factor H (FH) exhibits previously unknown anti-thrombotic properties, inhibiting blood coagulation pathways. This finding offers new insights into anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS) and potential therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Hematology
- Autoimmune Diseases
Background:
- Anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder linked to recurrent thrombosis.
- APS involves antibodies targeting beta-2 glycoprotein 1 (β2-GP1) and phospholipids.
- Some APS patients have autoantibodies to complement factor H (FH), a β2-GP1 homologue.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether complement factor H (FH) possesses anti-thrombotic properties.
- To explore FH's potential role in inhibiting blood coagulation pathways, similar to β2-GP1.
Main Methods:
- In vitro experiments were conducted using surface-bound phospholipids.
- Human plasma was utilized in the presence of complement factor H (FH).
Main Results:
- Complement factor H (FH) demonstrated an inhibitory effect on the intrinsic blood coagulation pathway.
- This anti-thrombotic property of FH was confirmed in experiments with phospholipids and human plasma.
Conclusions:
- Complement factor H (FH) has a previously unreported anti-thrombotic function.
- FH's role in coagulation warrants further investigation for potential therapeutic applications in APS.
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