fibrínu

Fibrin is a protein that plays a crucial role in blood clotting. It is formed from a precursor protein called fibrinogen, which is found in the blood plasma. When a blood vessel is injured, a cascade of reactions is initiated, leading to the activation of an enzyme called thrombin. Thrombin then acts on fibrinogen, converting it into fibrin.

Fibrin molecules are long, filamentous proteins that self-assemble into a mesh-like structure. This network of fibrin traps blood cells, such as red blood cells and platelets, effectively forming a clot that stops bleeding. The process of clot formation is essential for hemostasis, the body's mechanism for preventing excessive blood loss.

The fibrin clot is not permanent. Once healing has begun, another enzyme called plasmin breaks down the fibrin mesh, dissolving the clot. This process, known as fibrinolysis, ensures that blood vessels are cleared and blood flow is restored. Disorders of fibrin formation or breakdown can lead to either excessive bleeding or inappropriate clot formation, which can cause serious health problems. Understanding the role of fibrin is therefore important in the study of hematology and cardiovascular diseases.