Plazminogénaktivátor

Plazminogénaktivátor, often abbreviated as t-PA or PA, refers to a group of enzymes that initiate the conversion of plasminogen to plasmin. Plasmin is a critical enzyme in the fibrinolytic system, responsible for breaking down blood clots. This process is essential for maintaining healthy blood circulation and preventing the formation of harmful thrombi.

There are several types of plasminogen activators, with tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) and urokinase plasminogen activator (u-PA) being the most prominent. Tissue plasminogen activator is naturally produced by the body, particularly by endothelial cells lining blood vessels, and plays a significant role in dissolving clots that form during normal physiological processes or in response to injury. Urokinase plasminogen activator is found in urine and is also involved in fibrinolysis.

Therapeutically, recombinant forms of tissue plasminogen activator (alteplase) are used clinically as thrombolytic agents. These medications are administered intravenously to dissolve blood clots that cause serious medical conditions such as ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction (heart attack), and pulmonary embolism. By breaking down these clots, t-PA can restore blood flow to affected tissues, thereby reducing damage and improving patient outcomes. However, its use also carries a risk of bleeding, necessitating careful patient selection and monitoring.