Characterization of Factor VIII-Inhibitor By-Passing Activity (FEIBA)
In an attempt to identify the thrombogenic factor in human factor IX concentrates, we have studied the role of trace quantities of activated clotting factors employing an assay that compares the Factor VIII-like activity of IX concentrates with the ability of these products to restore to normal the abnormal activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) of Factor VIII inhibitor plasma after 1 minute and 40 minute incubation. A coagulant activity (FEIBA) was evident when partially purified Factors X and II were combined in vitro. Factor Xa (4 × 10-4 u) plus Factor II gave negative results. Factor IIa (5.5 × 10-2u), when combined with Factor X, generated FEIBA. Activated clotting factors (Xa, IIa) when tested alone, at comparable levels, were devoid of FEIBA. Our results suggest a mechanism, distinct from activated clotting factors, that can effectively by-pass the Factor VIII defect in the coagulation cascade. The proposed mechanism appears to also by-pass the normal inhibitory properties (i.e., antithrombin III) of human blood.