What is the effect of heparin on antithrombin activity?

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Multiple Choice

What is the effect of heparin on antithrombin activity?

Heparin acts as a potent activator of antithrombin III. By binding to antithrombin, it induces a conformational change that dramatically increases antithrombin’s ability to inhibit clotting enzymes, especially thrombin and factor Xa. This acceleration is about 1000-fold, so the complex rapidly inactivates these enzymes and prevents further clot formation. It’s not about making more antithrombin or increasing thrombin production; it’s about boosting the inhibitory action of antithrombin.

Heparin acts as a potent activator of antithrombin III. By binding to antithrombin, it induces a conformational change that dramatically increases antithrombin’s ability to inhibit clotting enzymes, especially thrombin and factor Xa. This acceleration is about 1000-fold, so the complex rapidly inactivates these enzymes and prevents further clot formation. It’s not about making more antithrombin or increasing thrombin production; it’s about boosting the inhibitory action of antithrombin.

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