Plasmin

Plasmin is an important enzyme in the body that plays a crucial role in the fibrinolysis process. It is formed in the blood from its inactive precursor, plasminogen.

Structure

Plasmin is a serine protease that is composed of two polypeptide chains. The heavy chain contains five kringle domains, which are involved in binding to fibrin. The light chain contains the catalytic triad of histidine, aspartate, and serine.

Function

The primary function of plasmin is to dissolve fibrin blood clots. In addition to fibrinolysis, plasmin proteolyses proteins in various other systems: It activates collagenase, some mediators of the complement system, and weakens the wall of the granuloma.

Clinical significance

Plasmin is used in clinical practice in the form of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), which is used to treat ischemic strokes and myocardial infarction.

See also

• Fibrinolysis
• Plasminogen
• Tissue plasminogen activator

References

Plasmin Resources
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