PREKALLIKREIN Meaning and
Definition
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Prekallikrein, also known as Fletcher factor, is a protein zymogen found in the blood plasma that plays a crucial role in the blood clotting cascade. It is a precursor of the enzyme kallikrein, which is involved in various physiological processes, such as inflammation, blood pressure regulation, and the coagulation system.
In its inactive form, prekallikrein circulates in the bloodstream, bound to the glycoprotein high molecular weight kininogen (HMWK). Upon activation, typically triggered by contact with collagen or other negatively charged surfaces, prekallikrein is cleaved by activated Factor XII (Hageman factor) to generate the active serine protease, kallikrein. Kallikrein then acts on HMWK to liberate the peptide bradykinin, an important mediator in inflammatory responses.
Prekallikrein deficiency is a rare hereditary disorder that can lead to excessive bleeding, prolonged clotting times, and abnormal inflammation response. This condition, also known as Fletcher trait, is usually asymptomatic but can manifest into various mild or severe bleeding disorders, such as excessive menstrual bleeding or uncontrolled bleeding after surgery or trauma. Diagnosis of prekallikrein deficiency is typically confirmed through laboratory tests, such as activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and clotting factor assays.
In summary, prekallikrein is a precursor protein involved in the coagulation system, acting as an integral component in the blood clotting cascade. Its activation leads to the generation of kallikrein, which subsequently plays a crucial role in various physiological processes and inflammatory responses.
Common Misspellings for PREKALLIKREIN
- orekallikrein
- lrekallikrein
- -rekallikrein
- 0rekallikrein
- peekallikrein
- pdekallikrein
- pfekallikrein
- ptekallikrein
- p5ekallikrein
- p4ekallikrein
- prwkallikrein
- prskallikrein
- prdkallikrein
- prrkallikrein
- pr4kallikrein
- pr3kallikrein
- prejallikrein
- premallikrein
- prelallikrein
- preoallikrein
Etymology of PREKALLIKREIN
The word "Prekallikrein" is derived from the combination of two terms: "pre-" and "kallikrein".
1. "Pre-" is a prefix in English that means "before" or "prior to". It is derived from the Latin word "prae", which has the same meaning.
2. "Kallikrein" is a term referring to a group of enzymes found in the blood that are involved in the process of blood clotting, inflammation, and the regulation of blood pressure. The term "kallikrein" is derived from the Greek words "kalli" meaning "beautiful" and "krein" meaning "to separate" or "to secrete".
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