Human Von Willebrand Factor (factor VIII R: Ag) is a 270 kDa multimeric plasma gylcoprotein. Important in the maintenance of hemostasis, it mediates platelet adhesion to injured vessel walls and serves as a carrier and stabilizer for coagulation factor VIII. The Von Willebrand factor has functional binding domains to platelet glycoprotein Ib, glycoprotein IIb/IIIa, collagen and heparin. The factor is synthesized by endothelial cells and is also present in platelets and megakaryocytes.
The essential biologic properties of VWF have been explicated, particularly in the areas of genetic regulation, biosynthesis, and specific bimolecular interactions. The three-dimensional structure of selected domains has been solved, but our understanding of detailed structure-function relationships is still fragmented because of the complexity and size of the VWF molecule. The biomechanical properties of the interaction between the VWF A1 domain and the platelet receptor glycoprotein (GP) Ib alpha are better known, but little is known how this adhesive bond can oppose the fluid dynamic effects of rapidly flowing blood to initiate thrombus formation and contribute to platelet activation. Developments in these areas of research will lead to a more satisfactory definition of the role of platelets in atherothrombosis and better understanding of the role played by VWF in vascular biology and pathology. (1)
Mutations in this gene or deficiencies in this protein result in Von Willebrand's disease. VWD is characterized by frequent bleeding (gingival, minor skin quantitative lacerations, menorrhagia, etc.). Some findings have been obtained on the link between regulation of VWF multimer size and microvascular thrombosis. This progress in basic research has provided critical information to define with greater precision the role of VWF in vascular biology and pathology, including its possible involvement in the onset of atherosclerosis and its acute thrombotic complications. (2)
Shi’s group employed Novus Von Willebrand Factor Antibody [FITC] Endothelial Cell Marker, NB120-8822, in a study that highlights the beneficial influence of nanotopography on the differentiation of Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC) into endothelial cells which play an important role in vascularization. (3)
Novus Biologicals offers Von Willebrand Factor reagents for your research needs including:
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