Blood 8 Flashcards
What does Aspirin cause?
Irreversible inhibition of COX-1 and COX-2
What gives rise to Arachidonic Acid?
The phospholipid membranes of various cells
What happens when Arachidonic Acid is influenced by COX-1?
It can be converted to Thromboxane A2 (TXA2)
What happens when Arachidonic Acid is influenced by COX-2?
It can be converted to Prostacyclin
Where is COX-1 found?
In platelets
Where is COX-2 found?
In endothelial cells
What does Thromboxane A2 do (TXA2)?
Causes vasoconstriction and increased platelet aggregation
What does Prostacyclin do?
Dilates blood vessels and decreases platelet aggregation. Is anti-hemostatic
What does Aspirin have a stronger inhibitory effect on?
The COX-1 pathway that produces TXA2
What does the COX-1 pathway produce?
TXA2
What does the COX-2 Pathway produce?
Prostacyclin
What is the net effect of aspirin?
It dilates blood vessels and decreases platelet aggregation through by inhibiting the COX-1 pathway
Why is blood clotting necessary?
Because vasoconstriction and Platelet plug formation may not be effective enough
In a blood clot, what do the blood cells get trapped in?
A network of protein called fibrin
What does fibrin do in blood clotting?
Forms a net in the area of damage and traps cells that are present in the blood to prevent blood loss
