Thrombin–antithrombin complex


Thrombin–antithrombin complex is a protein complex of thrombin and antithrombin.

TAT formation

TAT is formed in response to the high thrombin level caused by coagulation following a ruptured vessel. Since thrombin is rapidly bound by antithrombin, TAT is a good measure for thrombin level in the blood. Thrombin can pass the blood-brain barrier, destroying neurons and potentially causing cerebral edemas.

TAT and intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH)

TAT levels were studied in patients with intracranial blood clot removal within 24 hours after intracerebral hemorrhage in Fujian from 2006–2008. This study revealed that TAT levels in the plasma and hematoma fluid of these patients are higher than that those of healthy people, and that TAT levels decreased in the patients after surgery and increased in the patients that had a hemorrhage again. The TAT levels correlate with the severity of ICH according to GCS and NIHSS, and so, the study concluded that TAT complex may be useful in the prognosis for post-operative ICH-patients.