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Protein S is one of the many vital proteins in the human body. It plays a large role in controlling your blood clotting process. Your blood’s ability to clot is very important. It prevents excessive blood loss when an injury occurs. However, a blood clot in an artery or a vein (called thrombosis) can be extremely dangerous.

Your body contains coagulants and anticoagulants. Coagulants encourage clotting, while anticoagulants help prevent it. Protein S is an anticoagulant. If there is not enough of it, a harmful type of blood clot may form. The correct amount of protein S is needed to ensure your blood clotting process functions properly.

If you develop a blood clot, your doctor will often order a full evaluation of your clotting factors. Low levels of protein S is one of the many potential problems in the clotting system.