Molecular Classification
Coagulation protein, Glycoprotein, Cofactor
Other Names
Antihemophilic factor, AHF, HEMA
Disease Roles
Hemophilia Avon Willebrand disease

Coagulation Factor VIII Overview

Coagulation factor VIII (FVIII) is an essential blood clotting protein acting as a cofactor for activated factor IX (FIXa) in the activation of factor X. Deficiency or mutations in FVIII cause hemophilia A, a bleeding disorder. FVIII circulates bound to von Willebrand factor (vWF) and is activated by thrombin. Therapeutic innovations include recombinant FVIII products, gene therapy, and bispecific antibodies.

Mechanism of Action

Cofactor for FIXa-mediated activation of FX in the coagulation cascade, leading to thrombin generation and fibrin clot formation

Biological Functions

Blood coagulation
Hemostasis
Activation of Factor X

Disease Associations

Hemophilia A
von Willebrand disease

Safety Considerations

  • Inhibitor development (antibodies against FVIII)
  • Thrombosis risk with excessive FVIII replacement
  • Immune reactions to FVIII products

Interacting Drugs

Recombinant FVIII
Plasma-derived FVIII
Bispecific antibodies mimicking FVIII

Associated Biomarkers

Biomarker
FVIII plasma levels
FVIII activity