NCIt definition : A protein complex comprised of the serine proteinase plasmin irreversibly bound to
its corresponding serine proteinase inhibitor protein (SERPIN) alpha-2-antiplasmin.;
NCIt note : The plasmin-antiplasmin complex is usually efficiently cleared from the blood by the
liver before the complex can dissociate. However, the presence of elevated concentrations
of this complex may permit the regeneration of inactive alpha-2-antiplasmin and free
active plasmin. This may lead to aberrant activation of fibrinolysis, complement cascades
or collagenases. Therefore, elevated blood concentration of this complex is associated
with vascular and/or inflammatory diseases, such as disseminated intravascular coagulation
and rheumatic disorders.;