Pathophysiology of antiphospholipid antibodies.
The presence of antiphospholipid antibodies in plasma is a risk factor for thromboembolic complications. In vitro, however, the same antibodies can prolong dotting times in coagulation assays, a classic marker for a bleeding tendency. For years this contradiction has puzzled many scientists. Recently new insights into the interaction between antiphospholipid antibodies and their main target, the protein beta-2-glycoprotein I, have opened new avenues for the understanding of the pathology of this syndrome.
de Groot
P G
PG
Department of Haematology, Room G03.647, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands. ph.g.degroot@azu.nl
Derksen
R H W M
RH
D017152:Antibodies, Antiphospholipid / Q000097:blood / Q000276:immunology*; D016736:Antiphospholipid Syndrome / Q000503:physiopathology*; D001780:Blood Coagulation Tests; D006023:Glycoproteins / Q000097:blood / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D012307:Risk Factors; D013923:Thromboembolism / Q000209:etiology; D053482:beta 2-Glycoprotein I
D017152:Antibodies, Antiphospholipid; D006023:Glycoproteins; D053482:beta 2-Glycoprotein I