clotting factor VII

biochemistry

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 16, 2026

Quick Summary

Clotting factor VII is a glycoprotein essential for blood clotting. It is part of the extrinsic pathway of coagulation, which is activated by tissue factor released from cells outside blood vessels. Factor VII, along with tissue factor, triggers a cascade of reactions that ultimately lead to the formation of factor X. This factor then initiates the common pathway of coagulation, resulting in the production of thrombin and subsequently fibrin, which forms the mesh of a blood clot. A deficiency in factor VII can impair the blood's ability to clot properly.12

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

4 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

vitamin K
including prothrombin and factors VII, IX, and X. A form of vitamin K known as phylloquinone (vitamin K₁) is synthesized by plants. A second form of vitamin K known as menaquinone (vitamin K₂) is synthesized by bacteria, including bacteria in the intestines of mammals. These bacteria produce the majority…
Read More
including prothrombin and factors VII, IX, and X. A form of vitamin K known as phylloquinone (vitamin K₁) is synthesized by plants. A second form of vitamin K known as menaquinone (vitamin K₂) is synthesized by bacteria, including bacteria in the intestines of mammals. These bacteria produce the majority…
Read More