How the von Willebrand factor helps stop bleeding in the body

Mechanical regulation of von Willebrand factor

NIH-funded research University of Massachusetts Amherst · NIH-10659169

This study is looking at how a protein called von Willebrand factor helps your blood clot when you bleed, and it aims to find new ways to treat bleeding disorders like von Willebrand disease, which could lead to better therapies for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Hadley, United States)
Project IDNIH-10659169 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of von Willebrand factor (VWF) in blood clotting, particularly how it interacts with platelets during bleeding. The study focuses on understanding the mechanical regulation of VWF, specifically how certain structures within the protein can be activated under stress conditions. By examining the molecular interactions and the effects of specific glycan structures, the research aims to uncover new strategies for treating bleeding disorders. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved therapies for conditions like von Willebrand disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with bleeding disorders, particularly those diagnosed with von Willebrand disease.

Not a fit: Patients with unrelated coagulation disorders or those not experiencing bleeding issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for bleeding disorders, improving patient outcomes and reducing the risk of excessive bleeding.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been limited success in targeting the A1-GPIb-IX interaction for treatment, this research builds on preliminary findings that suggest a novel approach to understanding and potentially improving treatment strategies.

Where this research is happening

Hadley, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.