Von Willebrand factor
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Von Willebrand Factor
Von Willebrand Factor (pronounced: von VIL-uh-brand FAK-tur), often abbreviated as VWF, is a plasma protein that plays a crucial role in blood clotting.
Etymology
The term "Von Willebrand Factor" is named after the Finnish physician Erik von Willebrand, who first described the condition Von Willebrand Disease in 1926.
Function
Von Willebrand Factor is produced in the endothelial cells lining the blood vessels and in megakaryocytes, the cells responsible for the production of platelets. It serves as a binding agent for platelets, helping them stick together and form clots to stop bleeding. It also carries and protects Factor VIII, another important clotting protein.
Related Terms
- Von Willebrand Disease: A genetic disorder caused by missing or defective Von Willebrand Factor, leading to heavy or prolonged bleeding.
- Factor VIII: A protein that works with Von Willebrand Factor to help the blood clot.
- Hemostasis: The process of stopping bleeding, in which Von Willebrand Factor plays a key role.
- Coagulation: The process by which blood changes from a liquid to a gel, forming a clot to stop bleeding.
See Also
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