Cell-based coagulation theory: from the waterfall sequence to cell membranes

Abstract

The classical model of coagulation, proposed more than 40 years ago, separates humoral and cellular phases of coagulation. This model assumes that the hemostatic process is achieved through the sequential activation of effector enzymes in two independent ways: extrinsic and intrinsic. A new theory, known as the cell-based coagulation theory, has replaced the traditional hypothesis. In this new theory cells are emphasized as the essential elements capable of directing the hemostatic process, through the interaction of cell surfaces, tissue factor and factor VII in three simultaneous phases: initiation, amplification and propagation. The present literary review presents details on the new cell-based coagulation theory. In this sense, 33 articles were consulted in order to describe the most important aspects of the new theory and its advantages over the previous one.

Keywords

• coagulación sanguínea
• hemostasis