Which of the following describes the role of thrombin in coagulation?

Thrombin plays a crucial role in the coagulation cascade, primarily by converting fibrinogen into fibrin. Fibrinogen is a soluble plasma protein that, once converted by thrombin, turns into insoluble fibrin strands. These strands form the structural basis for blood clots, stabilizing the clotting process and ultimately preventing excessive bleeding. This conversion is essential for forming a stable clot that allows the healing process to begin.

The role of thrombin goes beyond fibrinogen conversion—it also promotes platelet aggregation and activates various coagulation factors. However, its most critical function in the cascade and in the overall process of hemostasis is the transformation of fibrinogen to fibrin, which is vital for cloth stability and function.