Using DNA synthesis technology we constructed two synthetic DNAs, designated syn-uPA-DNA and mut-uPA-DNA. Syn-uPA-DNA contains the complete coding sequence of human presecretion form of single-chain u-PA. Mut-uPA-DNA was derived from syn-uPA-DNA by deleting 18 base pairs coding for amino acids Arg179-Ser184. Each synthetic DNA was inserted into a bovine papilloma viral genome-based expression vector to obtain expression in mouse cells. The results indicate that both syn-uPA and mut-uPA proteins are secreted predominantly in single-chain form. The single-chain form of both enzymes can be completely converted to two-chain form by treatment with plasmin. Both enzymes are as active as natural urokinase (std-uPA) isolated from urine. Analysis of enzymatic activity indicates that under conditions where syn-uPA and std-uPA are completely inhibited by endothelial-type plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1), mut-uPA retains 90% activity. In identical experiments with placental-type PAI (PAI-2), mut-uPA retains 80% activity. Syn-uPA is capable of forming a approximately 100-kDa complex with PAI, whereas mut-uPA can not. PAI-treated mut-uPA has kinetic properties similar to untreated syn-uPA or std-uPA. Overall, the data indicate that amino acids Arg179-Ser184 function at least in part as a binding site for PAI. Resistance to PAI inhibition may increase the potency of mut-uPA as a thrombolytic agent.