tissue plasminogen activator
(TIH-shoo plaz-MIH-noh-jen AK-tih-vay-ter)
An enzyme made in the body that helps dissolve blood clots. A form of this enzyme is made in the laboratory to treat heart attacks, strokes, and clots in the lungs. It is also being studied in the treatment of cancer. Tissue plasminogen activator is a type of systemic thrombolytic agent. Also called tPA.