Fibrinolytik

Fibrinolytik refers to the process of breaking down fibrin, a protein that forms a mesh-like structure essential for blood clot formation. This process is also known as fibrinolysis. It is a crucial physiological mechanism that prevents blood clots from growing excessively large and occluding blood vessels.

The primary enzyme responsible for fibrinolysis is plasmin. Plasmin is a protease that degrades fibrinogen and fibrin. It is generated from its inactive precursor, plasminogen, by enzymes called plasminogen activators. The most important of these is tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA), which is released by endothelial cells lining blood vessels.

Fibrinolysis is tightly regulated. Inhibitors, such as plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), exist to control the activity of plasminogen activators, preventing premature or excessive clot breakdown. This delicate balance between clot formation (thrombosis) and clot dissolution (fibrinolysis) is vital for maintaining circulatory health.

Disruptions in the fibrinolytic system can lead to various medical conditions. Impaired fibrinolysis can increase the risk of thrombosis, leading to conditions like deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. Conversely, excessive fibrinolysis can result in bleeding disorders.

Therapeutic agents that promote fibrinolysis, known as fibrinolytic drugs or thrombolytics, are used to dissolve existing blood clots in emergency situations such as myocardial infarction (heart attack) or stroke. These drugs aim to restore blood flow by breaking down the clot obstructing the vessel.