[The vascular wall and fibrinolysis--physiologic aspects].

It is the aim of the present review to analyze from a theoretical point of view the functioning of the fibrinolytic system which would be optimally beneficial for the organism. Such a theoretically designed system is further compared with the fibrinolytic system in man. In fact, for an optimal function of the fibrinolytic system fibrin-directed, coagulation-independent activation is required. Furthermore, cross-linked fibrin, necessary for repair mechanisms, should be less attacked by the fibrinolytic system and, in contrast to the injured vessel wall, the intact endothelial cell should provide mechanisms favoring fibrinolysis. These requirements are fulfilled in vivo by the special molecular design of the fibrinolytic system.