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Apoptosis is associated with increased cell surface tissue factor procoagulant activity
E W Greeno1, R R Bach, C F Moldow
1Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA.
Summary
Apoptosis, a programmed cell death process, enhances the activity of tissue factor (TF), a key initiator of blood clotting. This finding links cell death pathways to coagulation, impacting wound healing and cancer.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Hematology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Tissue factor (TF) initiates coagulation but is typically inactive on intact cell surfaces (TF encryption).
- Apoptosis involves cell membrane changes and has been linked to TF de-encryption and increased procoagulant activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the hypothesis that apoptosis leads to enhanced TF procoagulant activity.
- To explore the relationship between apoptosis and the expression of cell surface TF activity.
Main Methods:
- Cultured human fibroblasts and endothelial cells were induced into apoptosis using specific treatments.
- Morphologic and DNA changes were assessed to confirm apoptosis.
- Changes in cell surface TF activity levels were measured under apoptotic conditions.
Main Results:
- Apoptosis induction in endothelial cells correlated with TF de-encryption and increased activity.
- Fibroblasts undergoing apoptosis also showed increased TF activity, primarily linked to morphologic changes.
- A consistent association was observed between apoptosis and the expression of cell surface TF activity.
Conclusions:
- Apoptosis is associated with the de-encryption and enhanced procoagulant activity of cell surface tissue factor.
- This link between apoptosis and TF activity may play a role in regulating cell turnover during tissue remodeling.
- Potential implications for understanding coagulation in wound healing and neoplasia.