Plasminogen activator
Plasminogen activator (pronunciation: /ˈplazmɪnədʒən æktɪˈveɪtər/) is a type of enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of plasminogen to plasmin, the major enzyme responsible for clot breakdown.
Etymology
The term "plasminogen activator" is derived from the words "plasminogen", which is the inactive form of plasmin, and "activator", which refers to something that triggers or initiates a process.
Types
There are two main types of plasminogen activators:
Function
Plasminogen activators are essential in the regulation of blood clots. They convert plasminogen into plasmin, which is an enzyme that breaks down fibrin, the main protein component of blood clots. This process is known as fibrinolysis.
Clinical significance
Plasminogen activators have significant clinical importance. They are used in medicine to dissolve blood clots in conditions such as myocardial infarction (heart attack), stroke, and pulmonary embolism.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Plasminogen activator
- Wikipedia's article - Plasminogen activator
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