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Aims Von Willebrand factor (VWF) is a plasma glycoprotein involved in primary hemostasis, while also having additional roles beyond hemostasis namely in cancer, inflammation, angiogenesis and potentially in vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation. Here, we addressed how VWF modulates VSMC proliferation and investigated the underlying molecular pathways and the in vivo pathophysiological relevance. Methods and results VWF induced proliferation of human aortic VSMCs and also promoted VSMC migration. Treatment of cells with a siRNA against αv integrin or the RGT-peptide blocking αvβ3 signaling abolished proliferation. However, VWF did not bind to αvβ3 on VSMCs through its RGD-motif. Rather, we identified the VWF A2 domain as the region mediating binding to the cells. We hypothesized the involvement of a member of the LDL-related receptor protein (LRP) family due to their known ability to act as co-receptors. Using the universal LRP-inhibitor receptor-associated protein, we confirmed LRP-mediated VSMC proliferation. siRNA experiments and confocal fluorescence microscopy identified LRP4 as the VWF-counterreceptor on VSMCs. Also co-localization between αvβ3 and LRP4 was observed via proximity ligation analysis and immuno-precipitation experiments. The pathophysiological relevance of our data was supported by VWF-deficient mice having significant reduced, if any, hyperplasia in carotid artery ligation and artery femoral denudation models. In wild-type mice, infiltration of VWF in intimal regions enriched in proliferating VSMCs was found. Interestingly, also analysis of human atherosclerotic lesions showed abundant VWF accumulation in VSMC-proliferating rich intimal areas. Conclusions VWF mediates VSMC proliferation through a mechanism involving A2 domain binding to the LRP4 receptor and integrin αvβ3 signaling. Our findings provide new insights into the mechanisms that drive physiological repair and pathological hyperplasia of the arterial vessel wall. In addition, the VWF/LRP4-axis may represent a novel therapeutic target to modulate VSMC proliferation. Translational perspective The mechanisms that drive physiological repair and pathological hyperplasia of the arterial vessel wall are complex and only partially understood. Specifically, the role of subendothelial-matrix proteins remains unclear. Here, we show that the hemostatic protein von Willebrand factor (VWF) accumulates in the vascular wall of atherosclerotic lesions and localizes to areas of vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation. VWF was found to use its A2-domain for binding to the VSMC-receptor LRP4, which in turn triggered outside-in signaling via integrin αVβ3, thereby inducing VSMC proliferation. Interfering with A2-domain/LRP4 interactions might offer innovative and additional therapeutical approaches to limit pathological hyperplasia.

Genome-wide association studies linked expression of the human neutrophil antigen 3b (HNA-3b) epitope on the Slc44a2 protein with a 30% decreased risk of venous thrombosis (VT) in humans. Slc44a2 is a ubiquitous transmembrane protein identified as a receptor for von Willebrand factor (VWF). To explain the link between Slc44a2 and VT, we wanted to determine how Slc44a2 expressing either HNA-3a or HNA-3b on neutrophils could modulate their adhesion and activation on VWF under flow. Transfected HEK293T cells or neutrophils homozygous for the HNA-3a– or HNA-3b–coding allele were purified from healthy donors and perfused in flow chambers coated with VWF at venous shear rates (100 s−1). HNA-3a expression was required for Slc44a2-mediated neutrophil adhesion to VWF at 100 s−1. This adhesion could occur independently of β2 integrin and was enhanced when neutrophils were preactivated with lipopolysaccharide. Moreover, specific shear conditions with high neutrophil concentration could act as a “second hit,” inducing the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps. Neutrophil mobilization was also measured by intravital microscopy in venules from SLC44A2-knockout and wild-type mice after histamine-induced endothelial degranulation. Mice lacking Slc44a2 showed a massive reduction in neutrophil recruitment in inflamed mesenteric venules. Our results show that Slc44a2/HNA-3a is important for the adhesion and activation of neutrophils in veins under inflammation and when submitted to specific shears. The fact that neutrophils expressing Slc44a2/HNA-3b have a different response on VWF in the conditions tested could thus explain the association between HNA-3b and a reduced risk for VT in humans.

Essentials Treatment options for von Willebrand disease (VWD) patients are limited. The p.P1127_C1948delinsR deletion/variant is a useful model to study VWD in vitro and in vivo. Counteracting dominant-negative effects restores von Willebrand factor multimerization in mice. This is the first siRNA-based treatment applied to a mouse model of VWD-type 2A. ABSTRACT: Background Treatment options for patients suffering from von Willebrand disease (VWD) are limited. Von Willebrand factor (VWF) is a polymeric protein that undergoes regulated dimerization and subsequent multimerization during its biosynthesis. Numerous heterozygous variants within the VWF gene display a dominant-negative effect and result in severe VWD. Previous studies have suggested that preventing the assembly of wild-type and mutant heteropolymers using siRNAs may have beneficial effects on VWF phenotypes in vitro. Objectives To study heterozygous dominant-negative variants in vivo, we developed a mouse model of VWD-type 2A and tested two independent strategies to modulate its detrimental effect. Methods The p.P1127_C1948delinsR deletion/variant, causing defective VWF multimerization, was expressed in mice as a model of VWD-type 2A variant. Two corrective strategies were applied. For the first time in a mouse model of VWD, we applied siRNAs selectively inhibiting translation of the mutant transcripts and we combined the VWD-type 2A deletion with the Cys to Arg substitution at position 2773, which is known to prevent dimerization. Results The RNA silencing approach induced a modest but consistent improvement of the VWF multimer profile. However, due to incomplete efficiency, the dominant-negative effect of the original variant could not be completely prevented. In contrast, the DNA approach resulted in increased antigen levels and restoration of a normal multimer profile. Conclusions Our data showed that preventing the detrimental impact of dominant-negative VWF variants by independent molecular mechanisms has beneficial consequences in vivo, in mouse models of dominant VWD.

International audience; Von Willebrand factor (VWF) modulates factor VIII (FVIII) clearance and the anti-FVIII immune response. Despite the high affinity that defines the FVIII/VWF interaction, association/dissociation kinetics dictates 2% to 5% FVIII being present as free protein. To avoid free FVIII when studying the FVIII-VWF complex in vivo, we designed a FVIII-nanobody fusion protein, with the nanobody part being directed against VWF. This fusion protein, designated FVIII-KB013bv, had a 25-fold higher affinity compared with B-domainless FVIII (BDD-FVIII) for VWF. In vitro analysis revealed full cofactor activity in 1-stage clotting and chromogenic assays (activity/antigen ratio 1.0 ± 0.3 and 1.1 ± 0.3, respectively). In vivo, FVIII-013bv displayed a twofold increased mean residence time compared with BDD-FVIII (3.0 hours vs 1.6 hours). In a tail clip–bleeding assay performed 24 hours after FVIII infusion, blood loss was significantly reduced in mice receiving FVIII-KB013bv vs BDD-FVIII (15 ± 7 μL vs 194 ± 146 μL; P = .0043). Unexpectedly, when examining anti-FVIII antibody formation in FVIII-deficient mice, the immune-response toward FVIII-KB013bv was significantly reduced compared with BDD-FVIII (1/8 vs 14/16 mice produced anti-FVIII antibodies after treatment with FVIII-KB013bv and BDD-FVIII, respectively). Our data show that a stabilized interaction between FVIII and VWF is associated with a prolonged survival of FVIII and a reduced immune response against FVIII.

Objective— von Willebrand factor (VWF) is crucial to hemostasis, but also plays a role in inflammatory processes. Unfortunately, no proper monoclonal antibodies to study VWF function in mice are currently available. We therefore aimed to generate single-domain antibodies (sdAbs) recognizing murine VWF and blocking its function in vivo. Approach and Results— Llama-derived sdAbs recognizing both human and murine VWF were isolated via phage display technology. One of them (designated KB-VWF-006) recognized the VWF A1 domain with picomolar affinity. This sdAb avidity was strongly enhanced via dimerization using a triple Ala linker (KB-VWF-006bi). When administered in vivo to wild-type mice, KB-VWF-006bi dose dependently induced bleeding in a tail clip model. In 2 distinct models of inflammation, KB-VWF-006bi efficiently interfered with leukocyte recruitment and vascular leakage. Conclusions— KB-VWF-006bi is an sdAb recognizing the A1 domain of human VWF and murine VWF that interferes with VWF–platelet interactions in vivo. By using this sdAb, we now also show that the A1 domain is pertinent to the participation of VWF in the inflammatory response.

International audience; Recently, we have identified scavenger receptor class A member I (SR-AI) as a receptor for coagulation factor X (FX), mediating the formation of an FX reservoir at the macrophage surface. Here, we demonstrate that the FX/SR-AI-complex comprises a third protein, pentraxin-2 (PTX2). The presence of PTX2 is essential to prevent internalization of FX by SR-AI, and the presence of FX is needed to interfere with internalization of PTX2. Binding studies showed that FX, SR-AI, and PTX2 independently bind to each other (KD,app: 0.2-0.7 μM). Surprisingly, immunoprecipitation experiments revealed that FX and PTX2 circulate as a complex in plasma, and complex formation involves the FX activation peptide. No binding of PTX2 to other vitamin K–dependent proteins was observed. Short hairpin RNA–mediated inhibition of PTX2 levels in mice resulted not only in reduced levels of PTX2, but also in similarly reduced FX levels. Moreover, PTX2 and FX levels were correspondingly reduced in SR-AI–deficient mice. Analysis of 71 human plasma samples uncovered a strong correlation between FX and PTX2 plasma levels. Furthermore, plasma samples of patients with reduced FX levels (congenital/acquired FX deficiency or after anti–vitamin K treatment) were characterized by concomitantly decreased PTX2 levels. In conclusion, we identified PTX2 as a novel partner for FX, and both proteins cooperate to prevent their SR-AI–mediated uptake by macrophages. Interestingly, their respective plasma levels are interdependent. These findings seem of relevance in perspective of ongoing clinical trials, in which plasma depletion of PTX2 is used as a therapeutical approach in the management of systemic amyloidosis.

SummaryHaemorrhagic episodes in patients carrying circulatory assist devices represent a severe life-threatening clinical complication. These bleeding episodes may originate from a reduced functionality of von Willebrand factor (VWF), a multimeric protein pertinent to the formation of a haemostatic plug. It has been reported that the reduced functionality is due to increased proteolytic degradation by the enzyme ADAMTS13, a phenomenon that is facilitated by device-induced increases in shear stress to which VWF is exposed. Here, we have tested a series of VWF-derived protein fragments and monoclonal murine anti-VWF antibodies for their capacity to reduce shear stress-dependent degradation of VWF. Via direct binding experiments, we identified an anti-VWF antibody that partially blocked VWF-ADAMTS13 interactions (46 ± 14%). Epitope mapping experiments revealed that the antibody, designated mAb508, is directed against the distal portion of the VWF D4-domain (residues 2134–2301) and recognises a synthetic peptide encompassing residues 2158–2169. Consistent with its partial inhibition of VWF-ADAMTS13 interactions in binding assays, mAb508 reduced ADAMTS13-mediated VWF degradation in a vortex-based degradation assay by 48 ± 10%. In a HeartMateII-based whole bloodperfusion system, mAb508 was able to reduce degradation of highmolecular- weight (HMW)-VWF-multimers dose-dependently, with a maximal inhibition (83 ± 8%) being reached at concentrations of 10 μg/ml or higher. In conclusion, we report that partial inhibition of VWF-ADAMTS13 interactions using an anti-VWF antibody can prevent excessive degradation of HMW-VWF multimers. This strategy may be used for the development of therapeutic options to treat bleeding episodes due to shear stress-dependent VWF degradation, for instance in patients carrying circulatory assist devices.

Postprocedural aortic regurgitation occurs in 10 to 20% of patients undergoing transcatheter aortic-valve replacement (TAVR) for aortic stenosis. We hypothesized that assessment of defects in high-molecular-weight (HMW) multimers of von Willebrand factor or point-of-care assessment of hemostasis could be used to monitor aortic regurgitation during TAVR.We enrolled 183 patients undergoing TAVR. Patients with aortic regurgitation after the initial implantation, as identified by means of transesophageal echocardiography, underwent additional balloon dilation to correct aortic regurgitation. HMW multimers and the closure time with adenosine diphosphate (CT-ADP), a point-of-care measure of hemostasis, were assessed at baseline and 5 minutes after each step of the procedure. Mortality was evaluated at 1 year. A second cohort (201 patients) was studied to validate the use of CT-ADP in order to identify patients with aortic regurgitation.After the initial implantation, HMW multimers normalized in patients without aortic regurgitation (137 patients). Among the 46 patients with aortic regurgitation, normalization occurred in 20 patients in whom additional balloon dilation was successful but did not occur in the 26 patients with persistent aortic regurgitation. A similar sequence of changes was observed with CT-ADP. A CT-ADP value of more than 180 seconds had sensitivity, specificity, and negative predictive value of 92.3%, 92.4%, and 98.6%, respectively, for aortic regurgitation, with similar results in the validation cohort. Multivariable analyses showed that the values for HMW multimers and CT-ADP at the end of TAVR were each associated with mortality at 1 year.The presence of HMW-multimer defects and a high value for a point-of-care hemostatic test, the CT-ADP, were each predictive of the presence of aortic regurgitation after TAVR and were associated with higher mortality 1 year after the procedure. (Funded by Lille 2 University and others; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02628509.).

von Willebrand disease (VWD)-type 2B is characterized by gain-of-function mutations in the von Willebrand factor (VWF) A1-domain, leading to increased affinity for its platelet-receptor, glycoprotein Ibα. We engineered the first knock-in (KI) murine model for VWD-type 2B by introducing the p.V1316M mutation in murine VWF. Homozygous KI-mice replicated human VWD-type 2B with macrothrombocytopenia (platelet counts reduced by 55%, platelet volume increased by 44%), circulating platelet-aggregates and a severe bleeding tendency. Also, vessel occlusion was deficient in the FeCl3-induced thrombosis model. Platelet aggregation induced by thrombin or collagen was defective for KI-mice at all doses. KI-mice manifested a loss of high molecular weight multimers and increased multimer degradation. In a model of VWF-string formation, the number of platelets/string and string-lifetime were surprisingly enhanced in KI-mice, suggesting that proteolysis of VWF/p.V1316M is differentially regulated in the circulation versus the endothelial surface. Furthermore, we observed increased leukocyte recruitment during an inflammatory response induced by the reverse passive Arthus reaction. This points to an active role of VWF/p.V1316M in the exfiltration of leukocytes under inflammatory conditions. In conclusion, our genetically-engineered VWD-type 2B mice represent an original model to study the consequences of spontaneous VWF-platelet interactions and the physiopathology of this human disease.

von Willebrand factor (VWF) is a promising target for developing antithrombotic drugs. The absence of accessible animal models impedes the study of specific human VWF (huVWF) targeting molecules in thrombosis. huVWF is not functional in the mouse because of a lack of interaction between huVWF and murine glycoprotein Ib. Using site-directed mutagenesis, we have replaced single or multiple amino acids in huVWF with their murine counterparts to eliminate species incompatibility. Using hydrodynamic injection, we have expressed the different chimeric VWF constructs into VWF−/− mice. Only huVWF with a complete murine A1 domain insertion was able to correct bleeding in vivo and form occlusive thrombi in mesenteric vessels after FeCl3 treatment. Using this model, we tested the antithrombotic effect of monoclonal antibodies against huVWF, blocking its interaction with collagens (mAbs 203 and 505) or with glycoprotein IIbIIIa (mAb 9). The 3 mAbs inhibited the thrombotic process in arterioles of VWF−/− mice expressing huVWFmuA1. Inhibiting VWF-interaction with collagens was more potent, emphasizing the potential of such a target as an antithrombotic tool. Our results validate our murine model as a simple in vivo tool to evaluate anti-huVWF agents.

The relationship between low-density lipoprotein receptor–related protein-1 (LRP1) and von Willebrand factor (VWF) has remained elusive for years. Indeed, despite a reported absence of interaction between both proteins, liver-specific deletion of LRP1 results in increased VWF levels. To investigate this discrepancy, we used mice with a macrophage-specific deficiency of LRP1 (macLRP1−) because we previously found that macrophages dominate VWF clearance. Basal VWF levels were increased in macLRP1− mice compared with control mice (1.6 ± 0.4 vs 1.0 ± 0.4 U/mL). Clearance experiments revealed that half-life of human VWF was significantly increased in macLRP1− mice. Ubiquitous blocking of LRP1 or additional lipoprotein receptors by overexpressing receptor-associated protein in macLRP1− mice did not result in further rise of VWF levels (0.1 ± 0.2 U/mL), in contrast to macLRP1+ mice (rise in VWF, 0.8 ± 0.4 U/mL). This points to macLRP1 being the only lipoprotein receptor regulating VWF levels. When testing the mechanism(s) involved, we observed that VWF-coated beads adhered efficiently to LRP1 but only when exposed to shear forces exceeding 2.5 dyne/cm2, implying the existence of shear stress-dependent interactions. Furthermore, a mechanism involving β2-integrins that binds both VWF and LRP1 also is implicated because inhibition of β2-integrins led to increased VWF levels in control (rise, 0.19 ± 0.16 U/mL) but not in macLRP1− mice (0.08 ± 0.15 U/mL).

Objective— The goal of this study was to search for an association between a desintegrin-like and metalloprotease thrombospondin type 1 motif, member 13 (ADAMTS13) levels and the occurrence of preeclampsia, its characteristics (time-onset and severity), and its consequences (occurrence of fetal growth restriction or preterm delivery). Methods and Results— We studied 140 pairs of women in a case-control study with 3 matching criteria: maternal age, gestational age, and ethnic origin. We measured ADAMTS13 activity using a fluorescence resonance energy transfer assay with the fluorescence resonance energy transfer-VWF73 peptide. ELISA was used to assess protein antigen levels: ADAMTS13, von Willebrand Factor (VWF), interleukin-6, C-reactive protein, P-selectin, and thrombospondin-1. The lowest levels of ADAMTS13 (activity ≤70% or antigen ≤592 ng/mL) were significantly associated with preeclampsia (odds ratios [OR] [95% confidence interval] of 4.2 [1.1 to 15] and 14.3 [1.7 to 123], respectively). This association was independent of VWF levels and preeclampsia risk factors but dependent on interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein levels for ADAMTS13 activity. Levels of ADAMTS13 activity (≤57%) were significantly associated with early-onset preeclampsia (OR=2.5 [1.1 to 5.8]). Severe preeclampsia was associated with the highest levels of P-selectin (>57 ng/mL) (OR=3.4 [1.2 to 9.7]). Conclusion— Preeclampsia is associated with decreased levels of ADAMTS13, independently of VWF. This decrease is quantitative, occurs early, and seems to be dependent on inflammation. Our results suggest that ADAMTS13 could participate in the pathophysiology of preeclampsia.

Von Willebrand disease (VWD)–type 2B originates from a gain-of-function mutation in von Willebrand factor (VWF), resulting in enhanced platelet binding. Clinical manifestations include increased bleeding tendency, loss of large multimers, thrombocytopenia, and circulating platelet aggregates. We developed a mouse model to study phenotypic consequences of VWD-type 2B mutations in murine VWF: mVWF/R1306Q and mVWF/V1316M. Both mutations allow normal multimerization but are associated with enhanced ristocetin-induced platelet aggregation, typical for VWD-type 2B. In vivo expression resulted in thrombocytopenia and circulating aggregates, both of which were more pronounced for mVWF/V1316M. Furthermore, both mutants did not support correction of bleeding time or arterial vessel occlusion in a thrombosis model. They further displayed a 2- to 3-fold reduced half-life and induced a 3- to 6-fold increase in number of giant platelets compared with wild-type VWF. Loss of large multimers was observed in 50% of the mice. The role of ADAMTS13 was investigated by expressing both mutants in VWF/ADAMTS13 double-deficient mice. ADAMTS13 deficiency resulted in more and larger circulating platelet aggregates for both mutants, whereas the full multimer range remained present in all mice. Thus, we established a mouse model for VWD-type 2B and found that phenotype depends on mutation and ADAMTS13.

Objective: The inability to regulate the inflammatory response initiated upon infection leads to severe sepsis, characterized by widespread microvascular injury and thrombosis, organ ischemia, and dysfunction. Ad isintegrin-like and metalloprotease with thrombospondin type 1 repeats (ADAMTS)-13 regulates primary hemostasis by proteolyzing von Willebrand factor (VWF). Decreased ADAMTS-13 has been reported in disseminated intravascular coagulation due to severe sepsis. The present study investigates whether the sepsis-related dysregulation of endothelial activation leads to specific changes of ADAMTS-13. Design: Case-control study. Setting: Adult intensive care unit in a university hospital. Patients/Subjects: Three groups were studied: a case group of 30 patients with severe sepsis, a control group of 29 patients with comparable organ failure unrelated to sepsis, and 30 age- and gender-matched healthy subjects. Interventions: None. Measurements and Main Results: Significantly lower ADAMTS-13 activity was observed in patients with severe sepsis (43.2%; interquartile range, 32.7, 67.0) than in patients with organ failure unrelated to sepsis (67.8%; 57.4, 87.9; p < .05) and healthy subjects (105.6%; 87.2, 125.6; p < .001). Accordingly, ADAMTS-13 antigen was more decreased in patients with severe sepsis than in patients with organ failure unrelated to sepsis and healthy subjects. VWF antigen was higher in patients with severe sepsis than in patients with organ failure unrelated to sepsis and healthy subjects. We found strong negative correlations in severe sepsis but not in organ failure unrelated to sepsis, between ADAMTS-13 activity and 1) VWF antigen; 2) thrombomodulin; 3) interleukin-6; 4) Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score; 5) shock; 6) acute renal injury. Moreover, patients above the median of ADAMTS-13 activity presented a higher survival compared with those below the median in the patients with severe sepsis but not in the patients with organ failure unrelated to sepsis. In contrast, there was no significant association between VWF antigen and survival in either the severe sepsis group or the group with organ failure unrelated to sepsis. Conclusions: We observed low ADAMTS-13 activity and antigen in severe sepsis and in other conditions associated with organ dysfunction. ADAMTS-13 levels were significantly associated with differences in morbidity, mortality, and variables of inflammation and endothelial dysregulation only in severe sepsis patients. This suggests that ADAMTS-13 deficiency may have a pathophysiological relevance specific to severe sepsis. (Crit Care Med 2007; 35:2375‐2382)

Summary. Background: von Willebrand disease (VWD) type 2 is associated with mutations in von Willebrand factor (VWF) that affect its secretion, multimeric pattern, affinity for platelet receptors and clearance of the protein. While increased proteolysis by a disintegrin-like and metalloprotease with thrombospondin type 1 motifs-13 (ADAMTS-13) has been clearly established for VWF type 2A, only little is known about VWF types 2B and 2M in this regard. Objectives: Sensitivity of wild-type (WT) and mutated recombinant (r) VWF to proteolysis by ADAMTS-13 was investigated to better understand the role of this process in the pathophysiology of VWD. Methods: We used human rADAMTS-13-WT to digest 11 full-length recombinant forms of VWF carrying molecular abnormalities identified in patients with VWD type 2A (E1638K and P1648S), type 2B (InsM1303, R1306W, R1308P and V1314F) and type 2M (G1324A, E1359K, K1362T, R1374H and I1425F). Results: Using low ionic strength conditions, all mutations induced increased proteolysis of rVWF by rADAMTS-13 as compared with rVWF-WT. The susceptibility of mutants decreased in the following order: type 2A > type 2B > type 2M > rVWF-WT. At physiological salt concentration (150 mm NaCl) the sensitivity of all rVWF to rADAMTS-13 was significantly decreased. However, type 2A and type 2B mutants still exhibited a significantly higher susceptibility to rADAMTS-13 than rVWF-WT, whereas type 2M mutants normalized. Conclusions: Type 2M mutants and rVWF-WT exhibit a similar sensitivity to rADAMTS-13-mediated proteolysis, in agreement with the normal multimeric pattern in vivo. In VWD type 2B, the spontaneous binding to platelets and excessive degradation by ADAMTS-13 of VWF high-molecular-weight multimers may account for their clearance from plasma.

SummaryADAMTS13 mutations S203P, R268P, R507Q and A596V were previously identified in French patients with hereditary thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) (Upshaw-Schulman syndrome). Mutated recombinant (r) ADAMTS13 were transiently expressed in COS-7 cells and characterized in comparison with wild-type (WT) rADAMTS13.ADAMTS13 antigen was qualitatively and quantitatively estimated by electrophoretic analysis and ELISA. Enzymatic activity was qualitatively and quantitatively estimated using GST-VWF73,FRETS-VWF73 fragments and full-length rVWF-WT as substrates. The four mutants and rADAMTS13-WT were present within the cells. Secretion level of rADAMTS13-WT reached 1,200 ng/ml. The four mutations strongly altered the secretion and biological activity of rADAMTS13. The percentage secretion was 21, 38 and 17% for rADAMTS13-S203P, -R268P and -A596V compared with rADAMTS13- WT. rADAMTS13-R507Q concentration was under the detection limit of the assay. In the four cases, no enzymatic activity was detected. After concentration, we confirmed that mutations S203P and R268P totally abolished the proteolytic activity of ADAMTS13. Due to the very low protease concentration, activity of rADAMTS13-R507Q was below the threshold of the assays. rADAMTS13-A596V had no proteolytic activity towards the full-length rVWF-WT whereas it exhibited a decreased specific activity of about 30% of that of rADAMTS13- WT towards FRETS-VWF73 fragment. Binding study of mutated rADAMTS13-S203P, -R268P and -A596V showed that the three mutations strongly decreased the interaction of ADAMTS13 with VWF. In conclusion, the four mutations, which led to a secretion defect, a loss of enzymatic activity and a decreased binding to the substrate, are responsible for the hereditary TTP in patients.

Fibrin is actively involved in platelet reactions essential for thrombus growth, in which von Willebrand factor (VWF) might be an important mediator. The aim of this study was to localize VWF domains that bind to fibrin and to determine their relevance in platelet adhesion. VWF binds specifically to fibrin with an apparent Kd of 2.2 μg/mL. Competition in the presence of 2 complementary fragments, SpIII (residues 1-1365) and SpII (residues 1366-2050), indicated that the high affinity binding site for fibrin is located in the C-terminal part, thus distinct from the A domains. Comparison of 2 deleted rVWF (ΔD4B-rVWF, ΔC1C2-rVWF) suggested that the C1C2 domains contained a fibrin binding site. This site is distinct from RGD, as shown by binding of D1746G-rVWF to fibrin. Perfusion studies at high shear rate demonstrated that C1C2 domains were required for optimal platelet adhesion to fibrin. With the use of a VWF-deficient mouse model, it was found that plasma VWF is critical for platelet tethering and adhesion to fibrin. These results suggest a dual role of fibrin-bound VWF in thrombus formation: first, fibrin-bound VWF is critical in the recruitment of platelets by way of glycoprotein (GP) Ib, and, second, it contributes to stationary platelet adhesion by way of binding to activated αIIbβ3.

Shear-induced platelet aggregation (SIPA) involves the sequential interaction of von Willebrand factor (VWF) with both glycoprotein Ib (GPIb) and αIIbβ3 receptors. Type 2B recombinant VWF (2B-rVWF), characterized by an increased affinity for GPIb, induces strong SIPA at a high shear rate (4000 s–1). Despite the increased affinity of 2B-rVWF for GPIb, patients with type 2B von Willebrand disease have a paradoxical bleeding disorder, which is not well understood. The purpose of this study was to determine if SIPA induced by 2B-rVWF was associated with αIIbβ3-dependent platelet activation. To this end, we have addressed the influence of 2B-rVWF (Val553Met substitution) on SIPA-dependent variations of tyrosine protein phosphorylation (P-Tyr) and the effect of αIIbβ3 blockers. At a high shear rate, 2B-rVWF induced a strong SIPA, as shown by a 92.7% ± 0.4% disappearance of single platelets (DSP) after 4.5 minutes. In these conditions, increased P-Tyr of proteins migrating at positions 64 kd, 72 kd, and 125 kd were observed. The band at 125 kd was identified as pp125FAK using anti–phospho-FAK antibody. This effect, which required a high level of SIPA (> 70% DSP), was observed at 4000 s–1 but not at 200 s–1. Monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs) 6D1 (anti-GPIb) and 328 (anti-VWF A1 domain), completely abolished SIPA and p125FAK phosphorylation mediated by 2B-rVWF. In contrast, neither RGDS peptide nor MoAb 7E3, both known to block αIIbβ3 engagement, had any effect on SIPA and pp125FAK. The size of aggregates formed at a high shear rate in the presence of 2B-rVWF was decreased by genistein, demonstrating the biologic relevance of pp125FAK. These findings provide a unique mechanism whereby the enhanced interaction of 2B-rVWF with GPIb, without engagement of αIIbβ3, is sufficient to induce SIPA but does not lead to stable thrombus formation.

Rationale: Percutaneous aortic valve procedures are a major breakthrough in the management of patients with aortic stenosis. Residual gradient and residual aortic regurgitation are major predictors of midterm and long-term outcome after percutaneous aortic valve procedures. We hypothesized that (1) induction/recovery of high molecular weight (HMW) multimers of von Willebrand factor defect could be instantaneous after acute changes in blood flow, (2) a bedside point-of-care assay (platelet function analyzer-closure time adenine DI-phosphate [PFA-CADP]), reflecting HMW multimers changes, could be used to monitor in real-time percutaneous aortic valve procedures. Objective: To investigate the time course of HMW multimers changes in models and patients with instantaneous induction/reversal of pathological high shear and its related bedside assessment. Methods and Results: We investigated the time course of the induction/recovery of HMW multimers defects under instantaneous changes in shear stress in an aortic stenosis rabbit model and in patients undergoing implantation of a continuous flow left ventricular assist device. We further investigated the recovery of HMW multimers and monitored these changes with PFA-CADP in aortic stenosis patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation or balloon valvuloplasty. Experiments in the aortic stenosis rabbit model and in left ventricular assist device patients demonstrated that induction/recovery of HMW multimers occurs within 5 minutes. Transcatheter aortic valve implantation patients experienced an acute decrease in shear stress and a recovery of HMW multimers within minutes of implantation which was sustained overtime. In patients with residual high shear or with residual aortic regurgitation, no recovery of HMW multimers was observed. PFA-CADP profiles mimicked HMW multimers recovery both in transcatheter aortic valve implantation patients without aortic regurgitation (correction) and transcatheter aortic valve implantation patients with aortic regurgitation or balloon valvuloplasty patients (no correction). Conclusions: These results demonstrate that variations in von Willebrand factor multimeric pattern are highly dynamic, occurring within minutes after changes in blood flow. It also demonstrates that PFA-CADP can evaluate in real time the results of transcatheter aortic valve procedures.

Summary. Dithiothreitol (DTT) is known to induce an active conformation of αIIbβ3 integrin and to promote the aggregation of Chinese hamster ovary (CHO)-αIIbβ3 cells in the presence of soluble fibrinogen (Fg). The aim of this study was to compare adhesion and spreading with Fg or von Willebrand factor (VWF) of CHO-αIIbβ3 cells in the presence or absence of DTT. Our results indicate that DTT treatment was required to induce cell spreading on VWF. In contrast, CHO-αIIbβ3 cell spreading on Fg was already optimal in the absence of DTT. We used a small perfusion chamber coupled to videomicroscopy to demonstrate that CHO-αIIbβ3 cells that were adherent and spread on VWF required DTT activation to resist to detachment under increasing shear rates (50–1600/s). In contrast, untreated or DTT-treated cells spread on Fg were able to resist to extremely high flow rates. These data provide novel evidence that activated αIIbβ3 is absolutely required for spread cells to resist detachment and strengthens the importance of the αIIbβ3 activation step for adhesion and spreading to VWF.

The VWF A1 domain seems to possess two heparin binding regions (residues 565-587 and 633-648) displaying positively charged amino acids, but the overall polyanion-A1 domain interaction scheme remains essentially elusive. To probe this molecular reaction as well as the role of electrostatic forces in VWF-heparin interaction, we performed mutagenesis and molecular modeling experiments. Fifteen mutated rVWFs were expressed [R571A, K572A, R573A, K585A, R571A/K572A/R573A, R578A/R579A, R578A/R579A/K585A, R571A/K572A/R573A/R578A/R579A/K585A (6A), K642G, K643G, K644G, K645G, K642G/K645G, K643G/K644G, and K642G/K643G/K644G/K645G (4G)]. Experimental results indicate that the multimeric structure of the mutants was similar to that of wild-type (WT) rVWF and that all rVWFs displayed normal binding to four conformation-dependent mAbs directed against the A1 domain. Three variants displayed significant reductions in the level of heparin binding. The 6A variant showed 39.2 +/- 1.3% of the WT rVWF level (p < 0.005), while mutants K643G/K644G and 4G showed 63.6 +/- 3.2 and 53.3 +/- 5% of the WT rVWF level, respectively (p < 0.005). Computational investigations showed that one face of the A1 domain is strongly electropositive, indicating that electrostatic forces should be essential in steering heparin onto its binding site. In agreement with our experimental data, the most striking alterations of the electrostatic potential contours were seen for mutants 4G, K643G/K644G, and 6A. Our data suggest that two clusters, one at positions 571-573, 578, 579, and 585 and the other at positions 642-645, act in concert for the recognition of heparin, forming a single extended binding surface across the electropositive face of the VWF A1 domain. A structural model of the VWF A1 domain-heparin complex is proposed, taking into account both experimental and computer modeling data.

Summary Background von Willebrand factor (VWF) is cleared in a shear stress- and macrophage-dependent manner by LRP1. von Willebrand disease (VWD)-type 2B mutants are endocytosed more efficiently than wild-type (wt)-VWF by macrophages. Objective To investigate if VWD-type 2B mutations in the VWF A1-domain affect LRP1 binding and LRP1-dependent clearance. Methods Recombinant Fc-tagged A1 domain (A1-Fc, A2-Fc, A3-Fc) and full-length VWF (wt or mutants thereof) were tested for binding to LRP1 or a recombinant fragment thereof in a static immunosorbent assay. Mutant and wt-VWF were also compared for clearance in mice lacking macrophage LRP1 (macLRP1−) and control mice (macLRP1+). Results We found that A1-Fc but not A2-Fc or A3-Fc binds dose-dependently to LRP1. Binding of A1-Fc to LRP1 was markedly enhanced by the VWD-type 2B mutation p.V1316M. As expected, full-length wt-VWF was unable to bind LRP1 under static conditions unless ristocetin was added. In contrast, the presence of the p.V1316M or p.R1306Q mutation induced spontaneous binding to LRP1 without the need for ristocetin or shear stress. Both mutants were cleared more rapidly than wt-VWF in control macLRP1+ mice. Surprisingly, deletion of macrophage LRP1 abrogated the increased clearance of the VWF/p.R1306Q and VWF/p.V1316M mutant. Conclusion The VWF A1-domain contains a binding site for LRP1. Certain VWD-type 2B mutations relieve the need for shear stress to induce LRP1 binding. Enhanced LRP1 binding coincides with a reduced survival of VWF/p.R1306Q and VWF/p.V1316M. Our data provide a rationale for reduced VWF levels in at least some VWD-type 2B patients.

The conformation of the A1 domain of von Willebrand factor (vWF) is a critical determinant of its interaction with the glycoprotein (GP) Ib/V/IX complex. To better define the regulatory mechanisms of vWF A1 domain binding to the GPIb/V/IX complex, we studied vWF-dependent aggregation properties of a cell line overexpressing the GPIb, GPIbβ, and GPIX subunits (CHO-GPIbβ/IX cells). We found that CHO-GPIbβ/IX cell aggregation required the presence of both soluble vWF and ristocetin. Ristocetin-induced CHO-GPIbβ/IX cell aggregation was completely inhibited by the recombinant VCL fragment of vWF that contains the A1 domain. Surprisingly, the substitution of heparin for ristocetin resulted in the formation of CHO-GPIbβ/IX cell aggregates. Using monoclonal antibodies blocking vWF interaction with GPIb/V/IX or mocarhagin, a venom metalloproteinase that removes the amino-terminal fragment of GPIb extending from aa 1 to 282, we demonstrated that both ristocetin- and heparin-induced aggregations involved an interaction between the A1 domain of vWF and the GPIb subunit of the GPIb/V/IX complex. The involvement of heparin in cell aggregation was also demonstrated after treatment of heparin with heparinase that abolished CHO-GPIbβ/IX cell aggregation. These results indicated that heparin was able to induce vWF-dependent CHO-GPIbβ/IX cell aggregation. In conclusion, we demonstrated that heparin is capable of positively modulating the vWF interaction with the GPIb/V/IX complex.

SummaryTo investigate the influence of the structure of heparin on its binding to vWF, we compared heparin fractions of different molecular weight (MW) or affinity for antithrombin III (ATIII). We studied the interaction of purified 125I-vWF or plasma vWF, labeled with a pool of 125I-monoclonal antibodies to vWF, with unfractionated heparin immobilized on agarose beads. Fractions were compared as competitors of these interactions and their effect was quantitated by their half-maximal inhibition (IC50). When the MW of the fractions decreased, especially below 7500, their IC50 increased, indicating that the affinity of the fractions for vWF decreased with their MW. Using heparin-derived oligosaccharides, we also demonstrated that a minimal chain length of 18 monosaccharides was required for heparin binding to vWF. In addition, different fractions with low affinity for ATIII were compared as competitors of 125-vWF binding to heparin-agarose. Despite a very low content of ATIII binding sites, some fractions retained a low IC50. Thus, heparin interaction with vWF is independent of the presence of the ATIII binding site and is mostly dependent on the length of the heparin chain. These data suggest that unfractionated heparin is a more potent inhibitor of vWF-dependent functions than low MW heparin fractions.

Dithiothreitol (DTT) is known to induce an active conformation of alphaIIbbeta3 integrin and to promote the aggregation of Chinese hamster ovary (CHO)-alphaIIbbeta3 cells in the presence of soluble fibrinogen (Fg). The aim of this study was to compare adhesion and spreading with Fg or von Willebrand factor (VWF) of CHO-alphaIIbbeta3 cells in the presence or absence of DTT. Our results indicate that DTT treatment was required to induce cell spreading on VWF. In contrast, CHO-alphaIIbbeta3 cell spreading on Fg was already optimal in the absence of DTT. We used a small perfusion chamber coupled to videomicroscopy to demonstrate that CHO-alphaIIbbeta3 cells that were adherent and spread on VWF required DTT activation to resist to detachment under increasing shear rates (50-1600/s). In contrast, untreated or DTT-treated cells spread on Fg were able to resist to extremely high flow rates. These data provide novel evidence that activated alphaIIbbeta3 is absolutely required for spread cells to resist detachment and strengthens the importance of the alphaIIbbeta3 activation step for adhesion and spreading to VWF.

SummaryThe aim of our study was to characterise heparin-binding properties of mutated von Willebrand factor (VWF) in 24 patients plasmas with type 2 von Willebrand disease (VWD), and in 15 recombinant VWF (rVWF) with the corresponding mutations. Binding of mutated rVWF or plasma VWF was compared to that of WT-rVWF or normal pool plasma VWF. Four mutations, at positions C509, V551, R552 and R611 lead to significantly decreased binding to heparin in both plasma and rVWF. Interestingly, whereas these four residues are distant in the primary structure of VWF-A1 domain, they are close to each other in its three-dimensional structure. Structural analysis suggested how folding problems and destabilisation due to these mutations could induce reorganisation of surface regions involved in heparin binding. In contrast, no heparin-binding defect was found associated with different type 2 VWF mutants, at positions G561, E596, I662, R543, R545, V553, R578 or L697.

[Graphic][1] Background: Acquired deficiency of von Willebrand Factor (VWF) characterized by a quantitative loss of high molecular weight (HMW) multimers of VWF is associated with cardiovascular disorders such as aortic stenosis. It has been shown that HMW-multimers defect is usually corrected after surgical aortic valve replacement. However, the initial time course of loss/recovery of VWF HMW-multimers following acute changes in blood flow in-vivo has not yet been studied. We hypothesized that recovery of HMW-multimers could occur within minutes following correction of the underlying "high shear" condition and as such could be used to monitor acute changes in flow induced by cardiac interventions. We further investigated the potential underlying mechanisms. Methods: We investigated the time course of HMW-multimers loss/recovery in an animal model of instantaneous and reversible aortic stenosis (AS) specifically developed for that purpose. This model allowed the evaluation, in the same rabbit, of the dynamic time course of loss and recovery of HMW-multimers. We further investigated the time course of HMW-multimers loss/recovery and its related bedside whole blood assessment (PFA-100 analyzer) in 28 patients included in the WITAVI (Willebrand-TAVI) registry and undergoing 1) implantation of an axial-continuous-flow-LVAD (HeartMate-IIO, n=8) and 2) transcatheter aortic valve procedures, either BAV (n=10) or TAVI (n=10). VWF antigen (VWF:Ag) and VWF propeptide (VWFpp) levels were measured by ELISA. VWF multimeric analysis was performed as previously described in patients and newly developed for rabbits. PFA-CADP was assessed by platelet-function analyzer PFA-100® using ADP cartridges. Results: In the rabbit model, induction of aortic stenosis was associated with a HMW-multimers defect (normalized ratio = 0.74±0.07; p

Introduction: The purpose was to study von Willebrand factor (vWF) binding to heparin in diAerent types of von Willebrand disease (vWD). Materials and methods: Plasma samples from 92 patients were representative of most vWD subtypes as they included 13 type 1, ten type 2N, 27 type 2A, 23 type 2B, and 19 type 2M patients. We selected assay conditions suitable for the screening of plasma vWF concentrations as low as 15 U/dl vWF:Ag. We determined the range of vWF concentrations in plasma where the percentage of 125 I-MAb/vWF complexes bound to heparin-agarose beads was constant. This range of dilution allowed circumvention of potential competition by other plasma heparin-binding proteins. Results: The multimeric composition of vWF had hardly any influence on the ability of vWF to bind to heparin. Results were expressed as the ratio of heparin-binding capacity of patients’ plasma to that of normal pool plasma. We found a ratio of 0.99+0.004 (mean+s.e.m.) for 23 normal individual donors. Furthermore, when comparing the mean values of plasma vWF-heparin binding ratios by ANOVA F-test in the six groups (one normal and five vWD), we found significant diAerences between them (P50.0001). Pairwise comparison of multiples by the ScheAe’s test indicated that the mean values of ratios in type 2A on the one hand and type 2M on the other, were significantly lower than in normal plasma, type 2N, type 2B and type 1. Conclusion: Our data suggest a relationship between the ability of vWF to bind to heparin and to the platelet GPIb receptor, since type 2B and 2N patients have an increased or normal ability to bind to GPIb whereas type 2A and 2M patients have an impaired interaction with that receptor. The Hematology Journal (2000) 1, 190‐198