Protein C anticoagulant system—anti-inflammatory effects

Activated protein C (APC) plays active roles in preventing progression of a number of disease processes. These include thrombosis due to its direct anticoagulant activity which is likely augmented by its cytoprotective activity, thereby limiting exposure of procoagulant cellular membrane surfaces on cells. Beyond that, the pathway signals the cells to prevent apoptosis, to dampen inflammation, to increase endothelial barrier function, and to selectively downregulate some genes implicated in disease progression. Most of these functions are manifested to APC binding to endothelial protein C receptor (EPCR) allowing PAR1 activation, but activation of other PARS is also implicated in some cases. In addition to EPCR orchestrating these changes, CD11b is also capable of supporting APC signaling. Selective control of these pathways offers potential in new therapeutic approaches to disease

Plasma protein C levels in immunocompromised septic patients are significantly lower than immunocompetent septic patients: a prospective cohort study

Introduction: Activated Protein C [APC] improves outcome in immunocompetent patients with severe sepsis particularly in those who are perceived to have high mortality risk. Before embarking on a trial of APC administration in immunocompromised septic patients, a preliminary study on plasma levels of protein C in this cohort is essential