Anti-Plasminogen antibody [EPSISR18(2)]

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

Plasminogen also known as PLG is an important protein with a molecular weight of approximately 92 kDa. Plasminogen is a zymogen which means it is an inactive precursor that requires activation to function. It is produced primarily in the liver and circulates in blood plasma. Its expression occurs mainly in the liver but you can detect it in various tissues including the kidney. Plasminogen binds to tissue surfaces and undergoes transformation into plasmin an active enzyme that plays significant roles in many biological processes.

Biological function summary

Plasminogen plays a central role in fibrinolysis which is the breakdown of fibrin clots. This process is essential in wound healing and maintaining normal blood flow. Plasminogen once activated to plasmin acts by degrading fibrin a major component of blood clots. The protein forms part of the fibrinolytic system along with other components like tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). Together they ensure that any clots forming within blood vessels are regulated and dissolved as necessary preventing blockages.

Pathways

Plasminogen is deeply involved in the coagulation and fibrinolytic systems. The conversion of plasminogen to plasmin is a critical step in these pathways requiring activators such as urokinase. Plasminogen has interactions with proteins like alpha-2-antiplasmin and thrombin which help modulate its activity. These interactions ensure a careful balance is maintained between clot formation and dissolution which is vital for normal bodily function.

Associated diseases and disorders

Plasminogen deficiency is linked with conditions like ligneous conjunctivitis a rare disorder characterized by membranous lesions mainly in the eyes. Reduced plasminogen activity can lead to excessive clot formation contributing to thrombosis risk. Plasminogen's interaction with plasmin and its deficiency can also associate with angioedema a condition that causes sudden swelling in the deeper layers of skin and tissues. Understanding the pathways and the proteins involved in plasminogen's function presents therapeutic potential in managing these disorders.