fibrinogentofibrin

Fibrinogen to fibrin conversion is a critical step in the blood clotting cascade. Fibrinogen, also known as factor I, is a soluble protein produced by the liver that circulates in the blood plasma. It plays a pivotal role in hemostasis, the process by which bleeding is stopped.

The conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin is catalyzed by the enzyme thrombin, which is generated during the coagulation process. Thrombin cleaves specific peptide bonds in the fibrinogen molecule, releasing small fragments called fibrinopeptides A and B. This cleavage exposes reactive sites on the remaining fibrinogen molecules, prompting them to aggregate and polymerize into long, insoluble fibrin strands.

These fibrin strands then form a mesh-like network that traps blood cells, including platelets and red blood cells, creating a stable clot. This clot effectively seals the injured blood vessel, preventing further blood loss. The process is tightly regulated to ensure that clotting occurs only when and where it is needed. Defects in fibrinogen or thrombin can lead to bleeding disorders or an increased risk of thrombosis.