Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa

Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa is a protein found on the surface of platelets, which are small cells in the blood that help with clotting. When a blood vessel is injured, these proteins enable platelets to stick together, forming a clot to stop bleeding. IIb/IIIa acts like a bridge, connecting platelets to each other and to other components in the blood. This process is crucial for wound healing, but excessive activity can lead to harmful clots, contributing to conditions like heart attacks. Medications that inhibit IIb/IIIa are used in treating certain heart-related issues to prevent unwanted clots.