Antithrombin: Molecular Basis of Deficiency

Abstract

Antithrombin is a plasma protein regulator of coagulation proteinase activity, particularly that of thrombin. Its deficiency is a risk factor for venous thromboembolism. Considerable progress has been made in understanding the organisation and function of the antithrombin gene and protein, and the molecular basis of deficiency, all of which are reviewed, but briefly, here.