V
von Willebrand Factor Assay
PHYSIOLOGY
• vWF is produced by endothelial cells and megakaryocytes and circulates with factor VIII, which prolongs its stability. Stored in endothelial cells and platelet α-granules, vWF acts as a bridge between exposed subendothelial collagen and platelets and among platelets. Platelet binding of vWF triggers a cascade of hemostatic and thrombotic events. Low levels of vWF result in lack of platelet activation (see p. 1176).
• Measured by quantitative ELISA with species-specific antibodies to vWF. Multimeric analysis (separates the different vWF multimers) can distinguish between type 1 and 2 vWD. Functional assays exist but are not frequently used in the clinical setting.
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