Fibrin

/ˈfɪbrɪn/ noun

Definition

A protein that forms the structural framework of blood clots, created when blood loss occurs and threads together to stop bleeding.

Etymology

From Latin 'fibra' (fiber) because early observers noted its thread-like appearance in clots. The term was established in the 1800s when biochemists discovered and isolated this crucial protein.

Kelly Says

Fibrin is like your body's emergency glue—when you cut yourself, an enzyme called thrombin snips fibrinogen (a circulating protein) into fibrin, which then polymerizes into an instant mesh net that catches blood cells and creates a clot.

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