Factor XIII: enzymatic and clinical aspects.

The present knowledge about clotting F XIII is roughly displayed. It is explained why F XIII is not a clotting factor in the strict sense of the word and that its biological function more general is the crosslinking of proteins via a transamidase reaction, the reduction of the permeability of the microvasculature, the stimulation of connective tissue cells, and finally the steering of connective tissue processes involved in wound healing. These effects are demonstrated as well in cell culture studies, animal experiments as by clinical results. Concerning the clinical results with F XIII, its effects on sclerodermia, subarachnoidal hemorrhage, inflammatory bowel diseases, Purpura Schönlein Henoch, and the wound healing are described in more detail.