Plasmin
Plasmin (pronounced /ˈplazmɪn/) is an important enzyme present in the blood that degrades many blood plasma proteins, most notably, fibrin clots. The degradation of fibrin is termed fibrinolysis. In humans, the plasmin protein is encoded by the PLG gene.
Etymology
The term "Plasmin" comes from the Greek word "plasma" which means "something formed or molded" and the suffix "-in" which is used in biochemistry to form names of proteins.
Function
Plasmin is a serine protease that is released as plasminogen into the bloodstream by the liver. Plasminogen is converted to plasmin by tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) and urokinase, enzymes that are produced by the endothelial cells lining the blood vessels. Plasmin then cleaves fibrin, a protein that forms a mesh-like structure that makes up a large part of blood clots.
Related Terms
- Fibrin: A fibrous, non-globular protein involved in the clotting of blood.
- Serine protease: Enzymes that cleave peptide bonds in proteins, in which serine serves as the nucleophilic amino acid at the enzyme's active site.
- Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA): An enzyme associated with the breakdown of blood clots.
- Urokinase: Also known as urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA), is a serine protease present in humans and other animals.
- Endothelial cells: Cells that line the interior surface of blood vessels and lymphatic vessels.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Plasmin
- Wikipedia's article - Plasmin
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