Thrombin

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(Redirected from Fibrinogenase)

Thrombin[edit | edit source]

Introduction[edit | edit source]

Thrombin is a critical enzyme in the coagulation process, playing a key role in blood clot formation. It acts on fibrinogen, a blood protein, converting it into fibrin, which forms the structural basis of blood clots.

Biochemical Role and Function[edit | edit source]

3D molecular structure of thrombin.

Thrombin is produced from prothrombin, a plasma protein, by the enzymatic action of the prothrombinase complex. It has multiple functions in the coagulation cascade, including:

  • Cleaving fibrinogen to form fibrin
  • Activating platelets
  • Enhancing further prothrombin activation

Formation and Regulation[edit | edit source]

Thrombin formation is regulated by various factors within the coagulation cascade, ensuring that clotting occurs appropriately in response to injury and not under normal circulatory conditions.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Thrombin's role in coagulation makes it a focal point in understanding and treating various blood disorders and conditions, such as:

  • Thrombosis
  • Hemophilia
  • Hypercoagulable states

Therapeutic Uses and Inhibitors[edit | edit source]

Thrombin inhibitors, like heparin and warfarin, are widely used to prevent and treat thrombotic disorders. Recombinant thrombin is used in surgeries to aid in clotting.

Diagnostic Use[edit | edit source]

Thrombin time (TT) tests, which measure the time taken for a blood sample to clot after the addition of thrombin, are used to diagnose bleeding disorders and monitor anticoagulant therapy.

Research and Developments[edit | edit source]

Ongoing research focuses on developing new anticoagulants targeting thrombin and understanding thrombin's role in various physiological and pathological processes.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


External Links[edit | edit source]

Thrombin Resources
Wikipedia
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