VWF : von Willebrand factor
Description
The VWF (von Willebrand factor) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 12.
The VWF gene provides instructions for producing von Willebrand factor, a blood clotting protein. This protein binds to specific cells and proteins during clot formation, sealing off damaged blood vessels and preventing further blood loss. VWF is produced in endothelial cells lining blood vessels and bone marrow cells. It consists of multiple identical subunits that are cleaved by an enzyme called ADAMTS13, enabling binding to various cells and proteins. VWF helps platelets stick together and adhere to blood vessel walls at the wound site, forming temporary clots to stop bleeding. It also transports coagulation factor VIII, another blood clotting protein, to the clot formation area.
VWF is also known as F8VWF, VWD.
Associated Diseases
- von Willebrand disease, type 3
- von Willebrand disease, type 1
- Von willebrand disease, type 2
- Von Willebrand disease
