Fibrin strands woven into the clot structure are cleaved into soluble fibrin fragments and then removed by macrophages. Fibrinolysis also restores blood flow into the sealed-off area, helping to promote further healing.
Fibrinolysis is mediated by a proteolytic enzyme called plasmin. Plasminogen is the inactive precursor form of plasmin found in plasma. After activation, plasmin takes on fibrinolytic properties, digesting both fibrin and fibrinogen.
Inhibitors control the process as a check and balance system for fibrinolytic activities.
