Question

Describe the mechanism of blood clotting or Describe the process of blood clotting.

Answer 1

Whenever we get injured, the blood starts coming out of the wound and blood vessels. But after some time, it stops naturally by the formation of a clot or cap over the wound or vessel. It is called blood clotting.

Complete answer:

Blood clotting is also called coagulation. The process of coagulation starts when some tissue is injured and bleeding is started. Injured tissue releases a clotting factor that stimulates extrinsic and intrinsic Pathways.

To prevent blood loss,

1. Vasoconstriction, the process in which blood vessels contract, takes place to reduce the blood flow from the damaged tissue like a blood vessel. Clotting factor released causes the platelets to stick together and form a solid plug-like structure to reduce the flow of blood outside.

2. The clotting factor released from damaged tissue also initiates the conversion of inactive zymogen prothrombin into an active enzyme known as thrombin. Enzyme thrombin catalyzes the conversion of soluble plasma proteins fibrinogen into insoluble fibrous protein fibrin. Fibrin makes a mesh-like structure around the platelet plug made initially and the blood cells are trapped in this mesh to form a clot. After the complete repair of the damaged region, the clot is dissolved by an enzyme Plasmin.

Note: Blood clotting is the process which prevents blood loss from the body during wounds and injuries. It is a natural process which helps to maintain the level of blood by preventing blood loss.