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β-Antithrombin Levels in Patients with Venous Thromboembolism.
Edith Alexandra Uj1,2, Éva Molnár1, Tünde Miklós1,2
1Division of Clinical Laboratory Science, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Nagyerdei Blvd. 98, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|November 27, 2025
Summary
Higher beta-antithrombin (β-AT) levels are linked to increased venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk. This study found elevated β-AT activity in VTE patients, suggesting a potential role in thrombotic disorders.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Hematology
- Thrombosis Research
Background:
- Beta-antithrombin (β-AT) is a high-affinity heparin-binding isoform of antithrombin (AT), comprising 5-10% of total plasma AT.
- Limited data exist on β-AT activity in thrombotic disorders, necessitating further investigation into its role.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and compare plasma β-AT activity levels between patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE) and healthy controls.
- To determine the association between β-AT levels and the risk of VTE.
Main Methods:
- Analyzed plasma samples from 200 VTE patients and 200 healthy controls.
- Measured total AT activity using a chromogenic anti-factor Xa assay.
- Quantified β-AT activity by using high salt concentration (1.1 M NaCl) to inhibit α-AT heparin binding.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in total AT activity was observed between VTE patients and controls.
- Significantly higher β-AT activity levels and β-AT to total AT ratios were found in VTE patients compared to controls (p < 0.001).
- Elevated β-AT activity and ratios were strongly associated with increased VTE risk (OR > 5.7).
Conclusions:
- Plasma β-AT levels are elevated in patients experiencing VTE.
- Increased β-AT activity may represent a risk factor for VTE.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the pathophysiological significance of elevated β-AT in VTE.
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