Plasmin

Definition

Plasmin is an enzyme in the blood that breaks down fibrin clots, playing a critical role in dissolving blood clots (fibrinolysis) and maintaining the patency of blood vessels. It is formed from its inactive precursor, plasminogen, through the action of various activators.

Related terms

Fibrinolysis:

The biological process by which fibrin in blood clots is broken down into smaller fragments by plasmin, leading to the dissolution of the clot.

Plasminogen: The inactive precursor of plasmin that circulates in the bloodstream, which upon activation transforms into plasmin.

Hemostasis:

The physiological process by which bleeding ceases, involving several steps including clot formation and subsequent dissolution by mechanisms such as fibrinolysis