Human coagulation factor VII is a trace plasma protein belonging to the vitamin K-dependent
factors. Two specific and sensitive immunoradiometric assays for factor VII were developed
using immunopurified rabbit antibodies against the Ca(II)-independent and Ca(II)-dependent
conformation of factor VII. Both assays were insensitive to the activation state of
factor VII. The distribution of factor VII antigen was studied in 40 healthy individuals
and the antigen level in normal plasma was calculated to be 0.52-0.62 μg/ml. The two
assays were used in a comparative study of factor VII procoagulant activity and factor
VII antigen in patients treated with oral anticoagulants.
Key words
Factor VII - Immunoradiometric assay - Calcium - Oral anticoagulation - Factor VII
deficiency