Which activated coagulation factor is responsible for converting fibrinogen to fibrin?

Thrombin is the activated coagulation factor responsible for converting fibrinogen to fibrin. This conversion is a critical step in the coagulation cascade, which ultimately leads to the formation of a stable blood clot. Thrombin acts on fibrinogen, a soluble plasma protein, cleaving it into insoluble fibrin strands. These strands then polymerize and cross-link, forming a mesh that stabilizes the platelet plug and helps to seal the wound.

The role of thrombin highlights its importance not only in coagulation but also in amplifying the coagulation process by activating several other clotting factors and platelets, further aiding in hemostasis. Understanding this process is vital for recognizing how blood clotting functions and how abnormalities can lead to bleeding disorders or thrombosis.