Tissue Plasminogen Activator (tPA) is a protein involved in the breakdown of blood clots. It is produced naturally by the body and plays a crucial role in the process of fibrinolysis, where it converts plasminogen into plasmin, an enzyme that dissolves clots. tPA is particularly important in treating conditions like ischemic stroke, where blood flow to the brain is blocked by a clot. In medical settings, tPA can be administered as a medication to help restore blood flow in patients experiencing a stroke or heart attack. The timely use of tPA can significantly improve outcomes, but it must be given within a specific time frame to be effective and safe.