Sequences in the formation of clots from purified bovine fibrinogen and thrombin; a study with the electron microscope.

The observed sequences in the formation of clots from purified bovine fibrinogen and thrombin are described. Under the conditions of these experiments, it appears that fibrinogen molecules are polymerized by the action of thrombin to form needle-shaped, crystal-like protofibrils which then become aligned into fiber strands by lateral association. The integrity of the unit fibrils is maintained within the strand. A model of the fibrinogen molecule is proposed which may satisfy the reported physical constants, data from x-ray diffraction studies, and observations made upon electron micrographs.