Cell fragments involved in the clotting process are called Cell
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: Platelets
Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are small, disc-shaped cell fragments that play a vital role in the blood clotting process. They are not full cells but rather fragments that originate from larger cells in the bone marrow called megakaryocytes. When a blood vessel is injured, platelets are among the first responders. They quickly gather at the site of injury, stick to the exposed tissue, and to each other to form a temporary plug. This action helps to stop bleeding and initiate healing.
The clotting process, known as hemostasis, occurs in several steps. First is vascular spasm, where the blood vessel constricts to reduce blood flow. Second is platelet plug formation, where platelets adhere to the damaged vessel wall and release chemicals that attract more platelets. This forms a plug that covers the break. Third is coagulation, where clotting factors in the plasma, along with the platelets, trigger a cascade of reactions that lead to the conversion of fibrinogen into fibrin. Fibrin is a protein that weaves through the platelet plug, strengthening and stabilizing the clot.
Platelets also contain granules that release important chemicals during clotting. These include serotonin, ADP, and thromboxane A2, which further promote platelet aggregation and vessel constriction. Once the vessel is healed, the clot is removed through a process called fibrinolysis.
A normal platelet count in the blood ranges from 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter. If the count is too low, it can lead to excessive bleeding. If it is too high, it can cause abnormal clotting, which may result in strokes or heart attacks. Platelets are therefore crucial for maintaining the balance between bleeding and clotting, helping protect the body from blood loss and supporting tissue repair.