Scientists from Harvard University have discovered a molecular mechanism that is key to regulating the way blood clots.
They detected an area on the von Willebrand factor (VWF) blood-clotting protein which contains a molecular sensor to regulate the size of the protein, important for it to work effectively.
VWF is essential to the body's circulation. It controls the balance between blood clotting and bleeding. Abnormalities affecting VWF can lead to health problems such as bleeding disorders and heart attacks.
The team said that this discovery will improve understanding on how body regulates the formation of blood clots, and could also add some information into how bleeding disorders, such as von Willebrand disease, disrupt this regulation system. They also said that this finding has the potential to lead the new avenues for treatment and diagnosis.
Links to original article:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/8082692.stm
http://generalmedicine.suite101.com/article.cfm/blood_clotting_disorders
http://www.uch.edu/conditions/blood/blood-clotting-disorders/index.aspx
http://www.theuniversityhospital.com/adultgenetics/blood.htm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/7833978.stm
