fibriinimuodostusta

Fibriinimuodostus, also known as fibrin formation, is a crucial process in hemostasis, the body's mechanism for stopping bleeding. It is the final step in the coagulation cascade, a complex series of enzymatic reactions that ultimately leads to the formation of a stable blood clot. The key protein involved is fibrinogen, a soluble protein present in the blood plasma.

When tissue damage occurs or a blood vessel is injured, a cascade of clotting factors is activated. This cascade culminates in the activation of an enzyme called thrombin. Thrombin then acts on fibrinogen, cleaving specific peptide bonds. This cleavage transforms the soluble fibrinogen molecules into insoluble fibrin monomers. These fibrin monomers spontaneously aggregate, forming long, thread-like strands.

These fibrin strands then create a mesh-like network throughout the injured area. This network traps blood cells, platelets, and other plasma proteins, effectively forming a blood clot. The clot acts as a plug, sealing the damaged blood vessel and preventing further blood loss. Eventually, this fibrin mesh is stabilized by cross-linking, a process mediated by another enzyme called factor XIII, making the clot stronger and more resistant to dissolution. This entire process is essential for wound healing and maintaining cardiovascular integrity.