Summary
The preparation of thrombin-coagulase is described. The properties of thrombin-coagulase
are compared with those of biothrombin: kinetics, thermostability, adsorption, chromatography,
esterase activity, clotting activity, action on platelets and on factors V and VIII,
susceptibility to inhibitors.
Biothrombin and thrombin-coagulase are closely related but distinct. Both apparently
derive from prothrombin. Prothrombin and coagulase combine to form a complex: thrombin-coagulase
wherein both factors are necessary for its activity. Possible explanations for the
difference between thrombin-coagulase and biothrombin are proposed.