Coagulase

Definition

Coagulase is an enzyme produced by certain bacteria that enables the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin, leading to blood clot formation. It is a virulence factor that helps these bacteria evade immune responses.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Coagulase is primarily associated with Staphylococcus aureus.
2. There are two types of coagulase: bound coagulase (clumping factor) and free coagulase.
3. Bound coagulase can directly convert fibrinogen to fibrin on the bacterial cell surface, causing cell clumping.
4. Free coagulase interacts with a plasma protein called coagulase-reacting factor (CRF) to form a complex that then converts fibrinogen to fibrin.
5. The presence of coagulase is used in laboratory settings to differentiate Staphylococcus aureus from other staphylococcal species.

Review Questions

Related terms

Virulence Factor: A molecule produced by pathogens that contributes to the pathogenicity and enables them to colonize a host.

Staphylococcus aureus:

A gram-positive bacterium known for causing various infections and producing numerous toxins and enzymes, including coagulase.

Fibrinogen: A plasma protein that is converted into fibrin by thrombin during blood clotting.