Cleavage of von Willebrand Factor by Granzyme M Destroys Its Factor VIII Binding Capacity
2011

Granzyme M Cleaves von Willebrand Factor and Affects Its Binding to Factor VIII

Sample size: 31 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Hollestelle Martine J., Lai Ka Wai, van Deuren Marcel, Lenting Peter J., de Groot Philip G., Sprong Tom, Bovenschen Niels

Primary Institution: University Medical Center Utrecht

Hypothesis

Granzyme M cleaves von Willebrand factor (VWF) and affects its interaction with factor VIII (FVIII).

Conclusion

Granzyme M cleaves VWF, disrupting its ability to bind FVIII, which may have implications in blood coagulation during meningococcal septic shock.

Supporting Evidence

  • Granzyme M cleaved both denatured and soluble plasma-derived VWF.
  • Granzyme M did not affect the multimeric size of VWF.
  • Increased plasma GrM levels correlated with an increased plasma VWF/FVIII ratio in meningococcal sepsis patients.
  • Granzyme M destroyed the binding of VWF to FVIII in vitro.

Takeaway

Granzyme M is a protein that can cut another protein called von Willebrand factor, which helps blood clot. When Granzyme M cuts it, von Willebrand factor can't hold onto factor VIII, which is important for stopping bleeding.

Methodology

The study involved in vitro experiments to assess the cleavage of VWF by Granzyme M and its effects on VWF's binding to FVIII, using various assays including immunoblotting and ELISA.

Limitations

The study's findings are based on in vitro experiments and may not fully represent in vivo conditions.

Participant Demographics

Patients with meningococcal disease, including those with septic shock.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0024216

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