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Updated: May 5, 2026
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Experimental and Imaging Techniques for Examining Fibrin Clot Structures in Normal and Diseased States
Published on: April 1, 2015
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Fibrinolysis in normal vitreous liquid
Thomas Bertelmann1, Thomas Stief, Reka Bölöni
1aDepartment of Ophthalmology bDepartment of Laboratory Medicine, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany cDepartment of Ophthalmology, Feldkirch Regional Hospital, Feldkirch, Austria.
Summary
This study found basal intraocular fibrinolysis in normal human eyes, with measurable plasminogen and PAP complexes. Vitreous sampling is safe and provides insights into this potential therapeutic target.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Hematology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Fibrinolysis is crucial for blood clot breakdown.
- Plasmin-alpha2-antiplasmin (PAP) complexes indicate fibrinolysis activation.
- Intraocular fibrinolysis in healthy eyes is largely uninvestigated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate fibrinolysis activity in normal human eyes.
- To measure functional plasminogen and PAP complex levels in vitreous humor.
- To establish the safety and feasibility of vitreous sampling for this analysis.
Main Methods:
- Collected 22 vitreous samples during pars plana vitrectomy.
- Stabilized samples with albumin and arginine, then froze them.
- Measured functional plasminogen via pNA reaction and PAP via EIA.
Main Results:
- Intravitreal functional plasminogen was 1 ± 0.65%.
- PAP concentrations averaged 14 ± 9 ng/ml.
- No significant correlation was found between plasminogen and PAP (r = -0.27).
Conclusions:
- Basal intraocular fibrinolysis exists in healthy eyes.
- Vitreous sampling via vitrectomy is safe and well-tolerated.
- Strict sample stabilization is vital for accurate intraocular measurements.
