von Willebrand factor: more than a regulator of hemostasis and thrombosis

Acta Haematol. 2012;128(3):158-69. doi: 10.1159/000339426. Epub 2012 Aug 10.

Abstract

von Willebrand factor (vWF) was first identified as an adhesive glycoprotein involved in hemostasis by Zimmermann in 1971. Since then, vWF has been shown to play a vital role in platelet adhesion, platelet binding to collagen and factor VIII protection. Recent studies have implicated vWF as a regulator of angiogenesis, smooth muscle cell proliferation, tumor cell metastasis and crosstalk in the immune system. In this review, we will discuss the aspects of vWF structure that facilitate its biological effects and speculate on its newly discovered and hypothesized roles in the pathogenesis of several diseases.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Angiogenesis Inducing Agents / pharmacology
  • Animals
  • Biomarkers / blood
  • Hemostasis / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Platelet Adhesiveness
  • Purpura, Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic / physiopathology
  • Thrombosis / physiopathology
  • von Willebrand Diseases / physiopathology
  • von Willebrand Factor / chemistry
  • von Willebrand Factor / physiology*

Substances

  • Angiogenesis Inducing Agents
  • Biomarkers
  • von Willebrand Factor