Key result
Platelets store ~15% of plasma von Willebrand factor levels synthesized by endothelial cells.
Why the study?
The synthesis and storage of factor VIII antigen and von Willebrand factor by human endothelial cells and platelets and their role in normal platelet function were not fully characterized.
Key points are not available for this paper at this time.
Design
In vitro study of cultured human endothelial cells and platelet fractions
In vitro endothelial VIII/vWF synthesis leaves open in vivo sources and roles; does not alter clinical practice.
Cultured human endothelial cells synthesize and secrete a protein(s) which has factor VIII antigen and von Willebrand factor activity. Subcellular membrane and granule fractions derived from human platelets also contain the factor VIII antigen and von Willebrand factor activity. Circulating platelets constitute a significant reservoir of VIII antigen containing approximately 15% of the amount present in platelet poor plasma. Thus normal platelets contain surface bound as well as intracellularly stored von Willebrand factor, a protein synthesized by endothelial cells which is required for normal platelet function.
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Nachman et al. (1976) studied this question. Cultured human endothelial cells synthesize von Willebrand factor, and circulating platelets serve as a significant reservoir containing approximately 15% of the amount present in platelet-poor plasma.
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