Plasminogen: an enigmatic zymogen

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Physiology
• Pathophysiology

Background:

• Plasminogen is a plasma protein; its active form, plasmin, is key in fibrinolysis.
• Therapeutic uses of the fibrinolytic system traditionally target clot formation or bleeding.
• Emerging evidence reveals plasminogen/plasmin functions beyond hemostasis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the expanding roles of the plasminogen-activating system.
• To explore novel therapeutic applications of manipulating this system.
• To highlight benefits unrelated to conventional thrombosis and hemostasis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of in vitro, animal, and human studies.
• Analysis of existing clinical data on antifibrinolytic agents.
• Synthesis of research on plasminogen's diverse physiological functions.

Main Results:

• Plasminogen/plasmin involved in protein clearance, complement activation, and cell behavior modulation.
• Antifibrinolytic agents show benefits in reducing infection risk and potential antiviral effects.
• Plasminogen administration may improve thrombolysis and accelerate wound healing.

Conclusions:

• The plasminogen-activating system has multifaceted roles in health and disease.
• Targeting this system offers therapeutic potential beyond anticoagulation and hemostasis.
• Further research into non-hemostatic applications is warranted.