Question

Why does chelation of calcium prevent blood clotting?

Answer 1

`Ca^(2+)` acts a a co-factor for many enzymes. Think of it as a car key: without it the engine won't start.

Explanation:

Blood clotting is a complex process, involving a cascade of reactions.

Somewhere in this chain, activated platelets will have an increased level of `Ca^(2+)` in their cytosol. This Calcium acts as the starter key for the enzyme Protein Kinase C. Take the `Ca^(2+)` away, e.g. with EDTA, and the protein won't start....