Thrombin

Definition

Thrombin is an enzyme in the blood plasma that causes the clotting of blood by converting fibrinogen to fibrin. It plays a central role in hemostasis, helping to prevent the loss of blood from damaged vessels.

Related terms

Hemostasis:

The process of stopping bleeding from a damaged vessel, involving vascular constriction, platelet plug formation, and blood coagulation.

Fibrinogen:

A soluble plasma glycoprotein that is converted by thrombin into fibrin during blood coagulation.

Coagulation:

The process by which blood changes from a liquid to a gel, forming a blood clot