Factor VIII

Factor VIII (FVIII) is a glycoprotein that plays a pivotal role in the coagulation process, primarily synthesised by the liver. It is essential for the intrinsic coagulation pathway. FVIII circulates in the blood in an inactive form. Upon vascular injury, it is activated by thrombin to form FVIIIa. This activated form then acts as a cofactor, binding with Factor IXa to form the Tenase complex. This complex efficiently activates Factor X, thereby propelling the coagulation cascade. This process culminates in fibrin formation, completing the haemostatic response. Deficiency or dysfunction of FVIII causes haemophilia A, a common hereditary bleeding disorder.