Summary
Activation of the fibrinolytic system is dependent on the conversion of the plasma
zymogen, plasminogen (Pg), to the serine protease plasmin (Pm) by the physiological
activators urokinase-type Pg activator (uPA) or tissue-type plasminogen activator
(tPA). The primary in vivo function of Pm is to regulate vascular patency by degrading fibrin-containing thrombi.
However, the identification of Pg/Pm receptors and the ability of Pm to degrade other
matrix proteins have implicated Pm in other functions involving degradation of protein
barriers, thereby mediating cell migration, an important event in a number of normal
e.g., embryogenesis, wound healing, angiogenesis, and pathological, e.g., tumor growth
and dissemination, processes. Prior to the development of Pg-deficient mice, much
of the evidence for its role in other biological events was based on indirect studies.
With the development and characterization of these mice, and ability to apply challenges
utilizing a number of animal models that mimic the human condition, a clearer delineation
of Pg/Pm function has evolved and has contributed to an understanding of mechanisms
associated with a number of pathophysiological events.
Keywords
Plasminogen - fibrinolysis - kringle domains - gene targeting - cell invasion