TISSUE PLASMINOGEN ACTIVATOR Meaning and
Definition
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Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) is a naturally occurring protein that plays a crucial role in the clot-dissolving process within the human body. Also known as alteplase, tPA is an enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of plasminogen, an inactive precursor, into plasmin, an active proteolytic enzyme responsible for breaking down blood clots.
When a blood clot forms within a blood vessel, it can lead to serious health conditions, such as heart attack or ischemic stroke, by obstructing the flow of blood. In such cases, tPA is administered as a therapeutic agent to dissolve the clot and restore normal blood flow. It works by binding to fibrin, a protein present in blood clots, and initiating a series of enzymatic reactions that ultimately result in the breakdown of the clot.
tPA is typically used in emergency situations, such as during the treatment of acute ischemic stroke or myocardial infarction (heart attack), where prompt intervention is required to minimize potential damage to vital organs, including the brain and heart. Its use needs careful consideration and medical supervision due to the risk of hemorrhage and other side effects associated with clot dissolution.
Besides its therapeutic applications, tPA also serves as a diagnostic tool in laboratory settings. The level of tPA in the blood can be measured to assess the degree of clot formation or its dissolution, aiding in the diagnosis and management of various clotting disorders.
Common Misspellings for TISSUE PLASMINOGEN ACTIVATOR
- rissue plasminogen activator
- fissue plasminogen activator
- gissue plasminogen activator
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- 6issue plasminogen activator
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- tiwsue plasminogen activator
- tisaue plasminogen activator
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