Thrombin–antithrombin

Thrombin–antithrombin complex (TAT) is a protein complex that forms in the blood when thrombin is inhibited by antithrombin. This complex is a major indicator of thrombosis and is used in medical diagnostics to determine the presence of a blood clot.

Formation

The formation of the TAT complex is a critical part of the coagulation process. When a blood vessel is injured, the body responds by activating platelets and the coagulation cascade to form a clot and prevent bleeding. Thrombin, a key enzyme in this process, is responsible for converting fibrinogen into fibrin, the main component of a blood clot. However, to prevent excessive clotting, the body also produces antithrombin, which binds to and inhibits thrombin. The resulting TAT complex is then removed from circulation by the liver.

Clinical significance

The TAT complex is a significant marker of thrombosis. Elevated levels of TAT in the blood can indicate the presence of a blood clot, making it a useful diagnostic tool in conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). However, TAT levels can also be elevated in other conditions, such as sepsis, cancer, and pregnancy, so it is not a specific marker for thrombosis.

Measurement

TAT levels can be measured in the blood using a variety of methods, including enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), immunoturbidimetric assay, and chromogenic assay. These tests are typically performed in a laboratory and can provide results within a few hours.

See also

• Coagulation
• Thrombosis
• Antithrombin
• Thrombin

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