Heparin cofactor II (HCII), a protein encoded by the SERPIND1 gene, is a coagulation factor that inhibits IIa, and is a cofactor for heparin and dermatan sulfate (“minor antithrombin”).
The product encoded by this gene is a serine proteinase inhibitor which rapidly inhibits thrombin in the presence of dermatan sulfate or heparin. The gene contains five exons and four introns. This protein shares homology with antithrombin III and other members of the alpha 1-antitrypsin superfamily. Mutations in this gene are associated with heparin cofactor II deficiency. Heparin Cofactor II deficiency can lead to increased thrombin generation and a hypercoagulable state.