plasminogène

Plasminogen is a protein that serves as a precursor to the enzyme plasmin, which plays a crucial role in the breakdown of blood clots. It is a protease inhibitor that, when converted to plasmin, breaks down fibrin clots, thus preventing excessive blood clot formation.

Plasminogen is a single-chain protein that is used by the body to form a two-chain protein called plasmin. This conversion occurs through the activation of plasminogen to plasmin by serine proteases, such as tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). When the body needs to dissolve blood clots, the activity of tPA is increased, leading to the conversion of plasminogen to plasmin.

Plasmin then breaks down fibrin clots, preventing the formation of new clots and allowing the body to dissolve existing ones. This process is essential for maintaining normal blood flow. In cases where the body is continuously forming or dissolving clots, high levels of plasminogen may be present, causing the protein to be used up more quickly.

Plasminogen deficiency can lead to disorders such as cardiovascular thrombosis, which may result in stroke or heart attack. Research on plasminogen has led to the development of new treatments for cardiovascular disease and other conditions related to excessive blood clotting, such as stroke and deep vein thrombosis. The study of plasminogen has also shed light on its potential role in diseases like cancer, where the formation and growth of tumors may be influenced by the activity of plasminogen and its derivatives.