Binds to human plasminogen (and plasmin) via its kringle repeats. Also binds to albumin, immunoglobulin G and fibrinogen. Could provide the bacteria with a mechanism for invasion, as streptococcal-bound plasmin could permit tissue penetration. PAM has more than one binding site for plasminogen; it is thought that each of the a-repeats can bind one plasminogen molecule. Belongs to the M protein family.