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Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1

Meaning

Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) is a principal physiological inhibitor of the fibrinolytic system, a serpin protein that functions by neutralizing tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) and urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA). Elevated circulating levels of PAI-1 are a significant clinical concern, as they inhibit the breakdown of blood clots, thereby increasing the risk of thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction and stroke. PAI-1 is also recognized as a key biomarker linking obesity, insulin resistance, and cardiovascular risk.