Factor Xa inhibitors: today and beyond

Curr Opin Investig Drugs. 2003 Mar;4(3):272-81.

Abstract

Serine proteases play an important role in thrombogenesis, the process that leads to blood clotting and conditions such as heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular disorders. In the coagulation network, the activation of various serine proteases facilitates the formation of the serine protease Factor Xa, which plays a central role in the process of coagulation and platelet activation. Factor Xa is an essential component of the prothrombinase complex, from which thrombin is formed, which then directly leads to fibrin clot formation. Thus, the inhibition of Factor Xa and its generation is an important strategy in the development of new antithrombotic drugs.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anticoagulants / pharmacology
  • Anticoagulants / therapeutic use
  • Blood Coagulation / drug effects
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Coronary Restenosis / blood
  • Coronary Restenosis / prevention & control
  • Drug Monitoring
  • Factor Xa / metabolism*
  • Factor Xa Inhibitors*
  • Fibrinolytic Agents / pharmacology*
  • Fibrinolytic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Thrombosis / blood
  • Thrombosis / prevention & control

Substances

  • Anticoagulants
  • Factor Xa Inhibitors
  • Fibrinolytic Agents
  • Factor Xa