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Multiple Choice

MOA of EDTA?

EDTA works by binding calcium ions. Calcium is a necessary cofactor for multiple steps in the coagulation cascade, and for the assembly of coagulation factors on platelet surfaces. By chelating Ca2+ and forming stable calcium-EDTA complexes, EDTA removes free calcium from the blood sample, stopping clot formation. That’s why EDTA is used as an anticoagulant in hematology tubes for complete blood counts. The other options describe actions of different agents—neutralizing thrombin, activating platelets, or binding iron—not the way EDTA prevents coagulation.

EDTA works by binding calcium ions. Calcium is a necessary cofactor for multiple steps in the coagulation cascade, and for the assembly of coagulation factors on platelet surfaces. By chelating Ca2+ and forming stable calcium-EDTA complexes, EDTA removes free calcium from the blood sample, stopping clot formation. That’s why EDTA is used as an anticoagulant in hematology tubes for complete blood counts. The other options describe actions of different agents—neutralizing thrombin, activating platelets, or binding iron—not the way EDTA prevents coagulation.