Fibrinogen

Definition

Fibrinogen is a soluble plasma glycoprotein synthesized by the liver, crucial for blood clot formation. It converts into fibrin during coagulation to form a blood clot.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fibrinogen is part of the acute phase response and increases during inflammation or infection.
2. It plays a role in innate nonspecific defense by trapping pathogens within clots.
3. Fibrinogen is cleaved by thrombin to form fibrin, which stabilizes the platelet plug.
4. Excess fibrinogen can contribute to thrombosis, whereas deficiencies can lead to bleeding disorders.
5. Measuring fibrinogen levels can help diagnose conditions related to inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, and coagulation disorders.

Review Questions

• What role does fibrinogen play in the body's defense mechanisms?
• How does fibrinogen contribute to blood clot formation?
• Why might elevated levels of fibrinogen be significant in a clinical setting?

Related terms

Thrombin: An enzyme that converts fibrinogen into fibrin during the coagulation process.

Fibrinolysis: The process of breaking down fibrin in blood clots, primarily facilitated by plasmin.

Platelet Plug: An aggregation of platelets that temporarily seals breaks in blood vessel walls before clot formation occurs.