What is the primary mechanism by which activated protein C exerts its anticoagulant effect in the coagulation cascade?

A Inhibition of factor Xa
B Inhibition of thrombin
C Inactivation of factors Va and VIIIa
D Activation of protein Z
Activated protein C (APC) primarily exerts its anticoagulant effect by inactivating factors Va and VIIIa, which are essential for the coagulation cascade.
Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology
Hematology Hematology: Coagulation Disorders Hematology: Coagulation Disorders Medium MEDICAL Confidence: high