fibrinolytic system
Quick Summary
The fibrinolytic system is a natural process in the human body that dissolves blood clots. This system is crucial for wound healing. It works by degrading fibrin, a protein that forms the meshwork of a blood clot, and fibrinogen, its soluble precursor. The active enzyme in this process is plasmin, which is formed from plasminogen. Plasmin's primary function is to break down fibrin, thereby dissolving the clot. This process is distinct from anticoagulation, which prevents clot formation. Fibrinolytic drugs are designed to activate this system to break down existing clots.12
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