Question

Low dosages of aspirin inhibit clotting by blocking the formation of which of the following?

A) vitamin K
B) thromboxane A2
C) factor X
D) thrombin
E) factor VIII

Answer 1

Low dosages of aspirin inhibit clotting by blocking the formation of thromboxane A2 (option B) , an important substance that promotes platelet aggregation and blood clot formation.

Step-by-step explanation:

Low dosages of aspirin inhibit clotting by blocking the formation of thromboxane A2. Aspirin, known chemically as acetylsalicylic acid, functions as an anticoagulant primarily through its ability to interfere with platelet function. It inhibits the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), which is necessary for the synthesis of prostaglandins and thromboxanes,
specifically preventing the formation of thromboxane A2 (TXA2), a compound that normally promotes platelet aggregation and vasoconstriction leading to clot formation.



This action of aspirin thus helps to reduce the risk of clot-related conditions, such as heart attacks and strokes, by increasing the bleeding time and preventing excessive clot formation.