Clinical Significance

    The tissue plasminogen activator-inhibitor complex (t-PAIC) refers to a complex formed when tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) is inhibited by its main inhibitor, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1).

    The levels of t-PAIC in the blood reflect the balance between clot formation and breakdown.  Elevated levels of t-PAIC can indicate increased fibrinolytic activity or a compensatory response to excessive fibrinolysis.

    High levels of t-PAIC are associated with a higher risk of thrombotic events, such as myocardial infarction and stroke, as well as bleeding complications due to excessive fibrinolysis.