[Phospholipids and blood coagulation]

Abstract

After a simplified survey of the chemistry of phospholipids (PL) their presence in the lipid part of thromboplastin is dealt with, the significance of this structure being stressed. In addition, the condition, mode of action and synthesis of PL in blood platelets are extensively discussed and the impact of the composition of thrombocytic PL in the membrane and granular fraction by plasma lipid substances is referred to. The relations between single forms of PL and those proteins activating coagulation are represented and the conditions for the development of such activating complexes are referred to. Subsequently the coagulation stimulating properties of PL, thromboplastin, thrombocytes, and artifically produced PL are compared and the attempt is made to draw certain conclusions from sometimes contradictory results. Finally, the anticoagulative effect of phosphatidylserin is referred to.