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Thrombin Generation

Meaning

Thrombin Generation is a critical physiological process referring to the formation of the enzyme thrombin, which is the central effector of the coagulation cascade, ultimately leading to the conversion of fibrinogen into fibrin and the formation of a stable blood clot. This process is highly regulated and involves a complex sequence of proteolytic activations of various clotting factors on the surface of activated platelets and endothelial cells. In clinical practice, measuring the overall potential for thrombin generation, rather than just individual clotting factor levels, provides a comprehensive assessment of a patient’s procoagulant state. This assessment is highly relevant to cardiovascular risk stratification and the safety of certain hormonal therapies. Uncontrolled generation of thrombin is the pathological basis of thrombosis.