← Genes & pathways

Gene & pathway reference · FROM DR. PURSER’S TEACHING

SERPINE1

SERPINE1 makes PAI-1, a protein involved in breaking down blood clots. You may also see PAI4G used for this pathway.

Based on teaching by Dan Purser, MD. How we prepare these guides

Updated Sep 23, 2026 · Educational reference

THE TEACHING CONNECTION

Balancing clot formation and clot breakdown

Balancing clot formation and clot breakdown

SERPINE1 encodes plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, or PAI-1, which helps regulate fibrinolysis: the process that breaks down clots. PAI4G refers to this pathway rather than a separate gene.

Putting the pieces together

Dr. Purser includes PAI-1 in the clotting conversation. Clot formation and clot breakdown are different processes, so a marker must be interpreted alongside personal and family clotting history and other risk factors. It is not a stand-alone reason to take aspirin, anticoagulants or supplements marketed for circulation.

A question to bring to your visit

Does this finding have a validated implication beyond my established clotting risk factors?

Variant lookup

These names can help you find an entry on your original genetic report. Seeing a name here does not tell you whether it affects your health or whether you need treatment.

Names you may see

PAI-1 · PAI4G · Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 · Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor 1, 4G/5G Polymorphism