The spelling of the term "Factor VIIIC" is related to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription of the sound represented by the letter "C". The C in VIIIC corresponds to the sound /s/ as in "cent" or "scent". The two Is in the term are pronounced /aɪ/, similar to the "i" in "wise". Finally, the Roman numeral "VIII" denotes the number 8 in English. In summary, Factor VIIIC can be pronounced as "faktər seven aaɪ cee".
Factor VIIIC, also known as factor VIII, is an essential component of the coagulation system in the blood that plays a crucial role in the formation of blood clots. It is a protein that acts as a cofactor in the activation of factor IX, enabling it to convert factor X into its active form, factor Xa. This conversion is a critical step in the cascade of reactions that ultimately leads to the formation of a stable blood clot.
Factor VIII is predominantly produced in the liver, although it can also be synthesized by endothelial cells and monocytes. It circulates in the bloodstream in an inactive form, bound to another protein called von Willebrand factor (vWF). Upon injury to blood vessels, factor VIII is released and undergoes a conformational change that allows it to interact with other clotting factors and initiate the coagulation process.
Deficiency or dysfunction of factor VIII results in a bleeding disorder known as hemophilia A, which is characterized by impaired blood clotting. Individuals with hemophilia A experience prolonged bleeding episodes, easy bruising, and spontaneous bleeding, which can lead to severe complications in certain cases.
Factor VIII is used therapeutically in the treatment of hemophilia A. Recombinant factor VIII products, obtained through genetic engineering techniques, are available as replacement therapy for individuals with factor VIII deficiency. These products can be administered intravenously to restore the level of functional factor VIII in the blood, allowing for the initiation and progression of normal blood clotting.