Fibrinogen is a soluble plasma glycoprotein synthesized in the liver. It consists of three pairs of polypeptide chains: Aα, Bβ, and γ. The beta chain (Bβ) is one of these critical components. Upon vascular injury, thrombin cleaves fibrinogen to form fibrin monomers, which then polymerize to form an insoluble fibrin matrix . This matrix is essential for hemostasis, as it stabilizes blood clots and aids in wound healing .
The FGB gene is located on chromosome 4 in humans . Mutations in this gene can lead to several disorders, including afibrinogenemia, dysfibrinogenemia, hypodysfibrinogenemia, and thrombotic tendencies . These conditions can affect the blood’s ability to clot properly, leading to either excessive bleeding or an increased risk of thrombosis.
Recombinant fibrinogen beta chain is produced using recombinant DNA technology, which involves inserting the FGB gene into a host cell to produce the protein. This technology allows for the production of large quantities of the protein for research and therapeutic purposes. Recombinant fibrinogen beta chain is used in various applications, including studying blood clotting mechanisms, developing new treatments for bleeding disorders, and creating synthetic blood products .
Fibrinogen and its cleavage products play several roles beyond clot formation. They regulate cell adhesion and spreading, display vasoconstrictor and chemotactic activities, and act as mitogens for various cell types . These functions make fibrinogen a critical player in wound healing and tissue repair. Additionally, abnormalities in fibrinogen levels or function can serve as biomarkers for various diseases, including cardiovascular diseases and certain cancers .
Research on fibrinogen beta chain has led to significant advancements in understanding blood coagulation and related disorders. Recombinant fibrinogen beta chain is used in developing assays to measure fibrinogen levels and activity in clinical samples. It is also being explored as a potential therapeutic agent for treating bleeding disorders and improving wound healing .