Von Willebrand Factor Domain Research Articles

In Silico Analysis of Pacific Oyster (Crassostrea gigas) Transcriptome over Developmental Stages Reveals Candidate Genes for Larval Settlement.

Following their planktonic phase, the larvae of benthic marine organisms must locate a suitable habitat to settle and metamorphose. For oysters, larval adhesion occurs at the pediveliger stage with the secretion of a proteinaceous bioadhesive produced by the foot, a specialized and ephemeral organ. Oyster bioadhesive is highly resistant to proteomic extraction and is only produced in very low quantities, which explains why it has been very little examined in larvae to date. In silico analysis of nucleic acid databases could help to identify genes of interest implicated in settlement. In this work, the publicly available transcriptome of Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas over its developmental stages was mined to select genes highly expressed at the pediveliger stage. Our analysis revealed 59 sequences potentially implicated in adhesion of C. gigas larvae. Some related proteins contain conserved domains already described in other bioadhesives. We propose a hypothetic composition of C. gigas bioadhesive in which the protein constituent is probably composed of collagen and the von Willebrand Factor domain could play a role in adhesive cohesion. Genes coding for enzymes implicated in DOPA chemistry were also detected, indicating that this modification is also potentially present in the adhesive of pediveliger larvae.

Some Aspects in Mechano-Biology of Platelet and Leukocyte in Blood Flows

For hemostasis and thrombosis, some proteins, such as Von Willebrand Factor (VWF, a multimeric plasma glycoprotein synthesized in endothelial cells and megakaryocytes and secreted to circulation or attached to endothelial cells), the metalloprotease ADAMTS13 (a disintegrin and metalloprotease with a thrombospondin type 1 motif, member 13), P-selectin (one of three selectin family members with a N-terminal C-type lectin domain, an epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like module, a series of consensus repeat (CR) units, a transmembrane segment and a short cyto-plasmic domain) and β2 integrin. In adhesion and aggregation of circulating platelets towards to the sites of vascular injury, VWF on vascular wall captures and activates the circulating platelets through interaction with platelet receptor glycoprotein Ibα (GPIbα). The activated platelets will secrete P-selectin, mediating flowing leukocytes to be captured first to and then rolled on the platelets. Activation of β2 integrin on leukocytes makes the rolling cells slow down and adhere firmly to platelet. Pathological hemodynamic environment may cause platelet-induced inflammation overreaction of leukocytes, leading to mechanical instability of thrombotic plaque. Above mentioned events all are referred to their respective un-well known mechano-chemistry processes. For better understanding on the mechano-chemistry mechanism of interaction of leukocyte with platelet under flows, we have investigated the force-dependent Structure-function of VWF-A domain, force-regulated cleavage of A2 domain of von Willebrand factor (vWF) by ADAMTS13, P-selectin secretion from activated platelet, and P-selectin-mediated Activation of β2 integrin on leukocytes under shear stresses, and so on through AFM and flow chamber experiments and molecular dynamics simulation. Our data showed that, these events mentioned above were biphasic force-dependent. Increasing force stabilizes the globular VWF-A conformation first and then makes it become a spread one with higher affinity with platelet receptor glycoprotein Ibα (GPIbα), the force-regulated cleavage of VWF-A2 domain by ADAMTS13 maybe closely related to the induced-fit of ADMATS13 and VWF-A2, Force triggers and quickens P-selectin-induced Activation of β2 integrin on leukocytes.

Site-Directed Pegylation at Specific Sites Significantly Prolongs the Half-Life of A1A2A3-VWF By Markedly Attenuating LRP1-Mediated Clearance

IntroductionDeficiencies of both von Willebrand Factor (VWF) and FVIII are associated with significant bleeding phenotypes. Consequently, patients with VWD or hemophilia A commonly require replacement therapy with coagulation factor concentrates. However, as infused VWF and FVIII have relatively short plasma half-lives, patient therapy generally necessitates frequent re-dosing. Development of a long-acting rVWF therapy thus represents an important unmet clinical need. We and others have previously demonstrated that the A1A2A3 domains of VWF play a critical role in regulating macrophage-mediated clearance of VWF in vivo. Importantly, crystal structures of the A-domains have also well characterized. In this study, we sought to utilize this data to investigate the hypothesis that site-specific PEGylation within the A1A2A3 domains could be used as a novel strategy to inhibit macrophage-mediated clearance, and thereby inform development of a rVWF molecule with extended plasma half-life.MethodologySite-directed mutagenesis was used to engineer novel surface cysteine residues at selected sites within A1A2A3-VWF. Following purification and characterization, individual A1A2A3 cysteine variants were PEGylated using 40kDa PEG maleimide. Clearance of unPEGylated and PEGylated A1A2A3 variants were assessed in VWF-/- mice. VWF-macrophage interactions were quantified in vitro using differentiated THP-1 macrophages. VWF binding to LRP1 clearance receptor was assessed using both immunosorbant assays and Surface Plasmon Resonance.ResultsNovel single cysteine residues were introduced at stringently selected sites within A1A2A3-VWF. These sites spanned all 3 A-domains and included; S1286C, Q1353C, M1545C, L1591C, V1636C, Q1652C, V1803C and S1807C. Interestingly, the introduction of these novel cysteine residues in both the A1 and A3 domains of VWF did not alter the rate of VWF clearance compared to WT A1A2A3-VWF. Conversely however, the A2 domain was less tolerant for the insertion of cysteines, with L1591C and V1636C variants demonstrating a significantly reduced VWF plasma half-life of approx. 1.5 fold versus WT-A1A2A3 (p<0.05).Subsequently, the engineered cysteine residues were modified by covalent attachment of a 40kDa branched PEG molecule. All variants achieved greater than 80% PEG conjugation efficiency, except V1636C which was eliminated from further study. Remarkably, PEG conjugation displayed site-specific effects on the in vivo half-life of A1A2A3-VWF. For example, PEGylation at S1286C within the A1 domain resulted in a marked increased in VWF half-life compared to WT-A1A2A3 VWF (92.4±6 vs 18.3±0.9 mins, respectively, p<0.001). Conversely, PEGylation at the adjacent site in the A1 domain, Q1353C, or downstream at M1545C within A2 had no significant effect on VWF half-life (23.3±1 and 20.8±3 mins, respectively). Interestingly, despite the fact that no previous roles have been described for the A3 domain of VWF in regulating its clearance, we observed a significant extension in VWF half-life for PEGylated variants within the A3 domain, V1803C and S1807C, (93.3±9 mins and 58.0±5 mins, respectively, p<0.05).Macrophage LDL receptor related protein 1 (LRP1) has been implicated as key cellular mediator of VWF clearance in vivo. Interestingly, in keeping with the reduced clearance observed for PEGylated VWF variants S1286C, V1803C and S1807C, binding of these variants to clearance receptor LRP1 cluster II and IV was ablated. Conversely, PEGylated variants which failed to extend VWF half-life (Q1353C and M1545C) displayed LRP1 binding that was comparable to WT-A1A2A3 VWF. Interestingly, PEGylation at specific sites in A2 (L1591C and Q1652C) which served to increased VWF half-life displayed normal binding to LRP1 cluster IV. However, binding of these variants to LRP1 cluster II was reduced by 90% compared to WT-A1A2A3.ConclusionCollectively, our novel data demonstrate that cysteine-directed PEGylation at specific sites within the A1 (S1286C), A2 (L1591C, Q1652C) and A3 (V1803C and S1807C) domains of A1A2A3-VWF inhibits binding to macrophage clearance receptor LRP1 in vitro. Consequently, these PEGylated A1A2A3-VWF variants demonstrate an extended circulatory half-life in vivo compared to wild type A1A2A3-VWF. Taken together, these results support the use of site-specific PEGylation as a potential approach to develop long-acting full length rVWF molecules. DisclosuresCooke:Pfizer: Employment. Terraube:Pfizer: Employment. Cohen:Pfizer: Employment. Pittman:Pfizer: Employment. Cunningham:Pfizer: Employment. Lambert:Pfizer: Employment. O'Donnell:Pfizer: Consultancy, Research Funding; Daiichi Sankyo: Consultancy; CSL Behring: Consultancy; Octapharma: Speakers Bureau; Leo Pharma: Speakers Bureau; Novo Nordisk: Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Bayer: Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Baxter: Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Shire: Research Funding, Speakers Bureau.

BIVV001: The First Investigational Factor VIII Therapy to Break Through the VWF Ceiling in Hemophilia A, with Potential for Extended Protection for One Week or Longer

Introduction: The standard of care for patients with severe hemophilia A is prophylactic factor VIII (FVIII) replacement. Conventional recombinant FVIII products are efficacious but require frequent administration because of their short half-life, which reflects the dependence of FVIII on von Willebrand factor (VWF). Recombinant FVIII Fc fusion protein (rFVIIIFc) provides an extended dosing interval, as well as joint protection and improved quality of life (Oldenburg et al, Haemophilia, 2018; Wang et al, Blood, 2016), with a well-characterized safety profile. While rFVIIIFc reduces the required administration frequency, longer prophylactic dosing intervals that also offer maximum overall protection are still an unmet need for patients with severe hemophilia A. Increasing the half-life of rFVIII is ultimately dependent upon decoupling FVIII and endogenous VWF.BIVV001 (rFVIII-VWF-XTEN) is a novel investigational rFVIII therapy with single-chain FVIII, the Fc domain of human immunoglobulin G1, 2 XTEN polypeptides, and the FVIII-binding D′D3 domain of VWF, designed to circulate in plasma independently of VWF, thereby breaking the VWF half-life ceiling. Here, we present the low-dose cohort results of EXTEN-A, a Phase 1/2a study assessing the safety and tolerability of a single dose of BIVV001, and the pharmacokinetic (PK) characteristics of a single dose of BIVV001 compared with rFVIII.Methods: EXTEN-A (NCT03205163) is an open-label, dose-escalation, multicenter study. Previously treated adult males with severe hemophilia A (<1 IU/dL [<1%] endogenous FVIII activity) with ≥150 exposure days to FVIII products were included. Patients were assigned to either the low-dose cohort (25 IU/kg of rFVIII and 25 IU/kg of BIVV001; n≥6) or the high-dose cohort (65 IU/kg of rFVIII and 65 IU/kg of BIVV001; n≥8). Escalation from the low-dose cohort, and enrolment of patients to the high-dose cohort was undertaken after assessment of available data from the low-dose cohort.After a screening and washout period of up to 28 days, patients received a single dose (25 or 65 IU/kg) of rFVIII. After a 3- to 4-day washout period, patients received a single dose of BIVV001 at the same dose level as rFVIII. Blood samples for PK analysis were collected for 3 days after dosing of rFVIII and up to 14 days after dosing of BIVV001. Inhibitor testing was performed 14 and 28 days following BIVV001 administration. Adverse events, clinical abnormalities in laboratory tests (including inhibitor development), and PK parameters were assessed. An interim analysis is planned, including the first 2 patients of the high-dose cohort.Results: Out of 7 patients enrolled in the low-dose cohort (25 IU/kg), 6 patients were dosed with BIVV001. Patients in this group were primarily white, with 1 patient of Asian descent, and 1 of Hispanic/Latino ethnicity. Patient ages ranged from 19 to 60 years. Low-dose BIVV001 was well tolerated and no inhibitors were detected through 28 days after BIVV001 dosing. Low-dose BIVV001 demonstrated an extended half-life of 37.6 hours, compared with a 12.1-hour half-life for rFVIII. Average FVIII activity post-infusion of BIVV001 was 12.2% at 5 days and 5.3% at 7 days.At least 8 patients will be enrolled in the high-dose cohort (65 IU/kg); preliminary data for the first 2 patients will be reported.Conclusions: BIVV001 was well tolerated in 6 patients with severe hemophilia A who were treated with a single low dose (25 IU/kg). No patient developed an inhibitor to FVIII. Low-dose cohort data demonstrated a breakthrough in the half-life of rFVIII therapy, with BIVV001 providing sustained FVIII levels that could potentially allow for more optimal, extended protection for patients. DisclosuresKonkle:Genentech: Consultancy; Spark: Consultancy, Research Funding; Pfizer: Research Funding; Gilead: Consultancy; CSL Behring: Consultancy; Bioverativ: Research Funding; BioMarin: Consultancy; Sangamo: Research Funding; Shire: Research Funding. Shapiro:Shire: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; BioMarin: Research Funding; Prometic Life Sciences: Consultancy, Research Funding; Bioverativ, a Sanofi Company: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Sangamo Biosciences: Consultancy; Genetech: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Bayer Healthcare: Other: International Network of Pediatric Hemophilia; OPKO: Research Funding; Octapharma: Research Funding; Kedrion Biopharma: Consultancy, Research Funding; Bio Products Laboratory: Consultancy; Daiichi Sankyo: Research Funding; Novo Nordisk: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding. Quon:Bioverativ, a Sanofi Company: Speakers Bureau; Octapharma: Consultancy; Genetech: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Bayer: Consultancy; NovoNordisk: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Shire: Speakers Bureau. Staber:uniQure: Honoraria; NovoNordisk: Consultancy; Bayer: Honoraria. Suzuki:Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd: Research Funding, Speakers Bureau. Poloskey:Bioverativ: Employment. Rice:Bioverativ: Employment. Katragadda:Bioverativ: Employment. Rudin:Bioverativ: Employment, Equity Ownership. Fruebis:Bioverativ: Employment, Other: Clinical Development.

Distribution of Pathogenic Variants in Von Willebrand Disease Type 2A in the American Population: Results from a National Clinical Reference Laboratory

Introductionvon Willebrand disease (VWD) is a common inherited bleeding disorder with a reported incidence ranging from 0.01% to 1%. VWD is classified as quantitative (types 1 and 3) and qualitative (type 2) defects in von Willebrand factor (VWF). Classical VWD type 2A, the most common qualitative defect of VWD, is characterized by decreased VWF-dependent platelet adhesion and a selective deficiency of high molecular weight VWF multimers. The majority of type 2A VWD is inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion. This subtype is caused by missense variants acting through a variety of mechanisms including defects in multimer assembly or an intrinsically increased sensitivity to cleavage by ADAMTS-13. The majority of pathogenic mutations are located in exon 28, predominantly affecting the A2 domain. Missense mutations have also been reported in the D3 and A1 domains (exons 22 and 25-28). Less common missense mutations include those responsible for dimerization (CK domain, exon 52) and multimerization defects (D2 domain, exons 11-17). Our objective was to determine the genomic distribution of mutations underlying type 2A VWD in patients referred to a USA-based clinical reference laboratory.MethodsIn a clinical reference laboratory, BloodCenter of Wisconsin, VWF gene sequence analysis results from January 2009 to July 2018 were reviewed. Molecular testing was performed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and bi-directional Sanger sequencing or capture-based enrichment and next-generation sequencing (NGS). Complete coding region and splice junction of VWF gene was compared to the reference sequence (NM_00552.3). Variant interpretation was performed according to American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG) standards and guidelines by utilizing genome databases, population frequency data, variant specific literature search and predictive computational tools. Variant interpretation was reviewed by a team comprising of genetic counselors, molecular experts and experts in coagulation disorders correlating these findings with the patient's clinical phenotype provided.ResultsPathogenic variants were identified in 46 cases received. Of these, 56.5 % (26 of 46) were in exon 28 of the VWF gene.(Figure 1) 21.7% of mutations (10 out of 46) were identified in exon 26, 4.3% were identified in exon 25 (2 of 46) and 6.5% (3 out of 46) were identified in exon 52 of VWF gene. The remaining 10.7% were identified in exons 6,11,12,22 and 27 (1 each). The distribution of these mutations according to VWF domains was also studied. 39% of these mutations were found in the A2 domain, 30.4% were identified in the D3 domain, and 13% were found in the A1 domain. A small number of these mutations were identified in the D1 domain (1/46), D2 domain (2/46) and CK domain (2/46). Phenotypic information was available for most patients evaluated.ConclusionsIn a predominantly Caucasian population with others of mixed ethnicities, the distribution of VWD type 2A mutations was studied in patients evaluated in a clinical reference laboratory. Most mutations were identified in VWF Exon 28 and in the A2 domain. Next generation sequencing platform enables sequencing of large amounts of DNA in parallel thereby allowing all VWF exons to be evaluated at one time. However, in smaller laboratories, without access to a NGS platform, initial evaluation of the VWF Exon 28 for evaluation of VWD type 2A variants is a cost effective measure. Subsequently, sequencing of other less implicated exons may be performed utilizing a reflexive algorithm. Genetic testing can be very useful in diagnosis of type 2 variants, where mutations in specific regions correspond to the defect in VWF function. [Display omitted] DisclosuresFriedman:Shire: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; CSL Behring: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees.

Extracellular Vimentin/VWF (von Willebrand Factor) Interaction Contributes to VWF String Formation and Stroke Pathology.

Background and Purpose- VWF (von Willebrand factor) strings mediate spontaneous platelet adhesion in the vascular lumen, which may lead to microthrombi formation and contribute to stroke pathology. However, the mechanism of VWF string attachment at the endothelial surface is unknown. We tested the novel hypothesis that VWF strings are tethered to the endothelial surface through an interaction between extracellular vimentin and the A2 domain of VWF. We further explored the translational value of blocking this interaction in a model of ischemic stroke. Methods- Human endothelial cells and pressurized cerebral arteries were stimulated with histamine to elicit VWF string formation. Recombinant proteins and antibodies were used to block VWF string formation. Mice underwent transient middle cerebral artery occlusion with reperfusion. Just before recanalization, mice were given either vehicle or A2 protein (recombinant VWF A2 domain) to disrupt the vimentin/VWF interaction. Laser speckle contrast imaging was used to monitor cortical perfusion. Results- Pressurized cerebral arteries produced VWF strings following histamine stimulation, which were reduced in arteries from Vim KO (vimentin knockout) mice. VWF string formation was significantly reduced in endothelial cells incubated with A2 protein or antivimentin antibodies. Lastly, A2 protein treatment significantly improved cortical reperfusion after middle cerebral artery occlusion. Conclusions- We provide the first direct evidence of cerebral VWF strings and demonstrate that extracellular vimentin significantly contributes to VWF string formation via A2 domain binding. Lastly, we show that pharmacologically targeting the vimentin/VWF interaction through the A2 domain can promote improved reperfusion after ischemic stroke. Together, these studies demonstrate the critical role of VWF strings in stroke pathology and offer new therapeutic targets for treatment of ischemic stroke.

Delimiting the autoinhibitory module of von Willebrand factor

Background The hierarchical hemostasis response involves a self-inhibitory feature of von Willebrand factor (VWF) that has not been fully characterized. The residues flanking the A1 domain of VWF are important in this self-inhibition by forming an autoinhibitory module (AIM) that masks the A1 domain. Objectives To delimit the AIM sequence and to evaluate the cooperative interplay between the discontinuous AIM regions. Methods ELISA, flow cytometry, a thermal stability assay and hydrogen-deuterium exchange (HDX) mass spectrometry were used to characterize recombinant VWF A1 fragments varying in length. Results The longest A1 fragment (rVWF1238-1493 ) showed higher inactivity in binding the platelet receptor glycoprotein (GP)Ibα and greater thermostability than its shorter counterparts. The HDX results showed that most of the N-terminal residues and residues 1459-1478 at the C-terminus of rVWF1238-1493 have slower deuterium uptake than the residues in its denatured counterpart, implying that these residues may interact with the A1 domain. In contrast, residues 1479-1493 showed less difference from the denatured form, indicating that these residues are unlikely to be involved in binding the A1 domain. The A1 fragment that lacks either the entire C-terminal flanking region of the AIM (C-AIM), i.e. rVWF1238-1461 , or the entire N-terminal flanking region of the AIM (N-AIM), i.e. rVWF1271-1493 , showed high GPIbα-binding affinity and low thermostability, suggesting that removal of either N-terminal or C-terminal residues resulted in loss of AIM inhibition of the A1 domain. Conclusion The AIM is probably composed of residues 1238-1271 (N-AIM) and 1459-1478 (C-AIM). Neither the N-AIM nor the C-AIM alone could fully inhibit binding of the A1 domain to GPIbα.

Destabilization of the von Willebrand factor A2 domain under oxidizing conditions investigated by molecular dynamics simulations

The protein von Willebrand factor (VWF) is key for the adhesion of blood platelets to sites of vascular injury. Recent studies have shown that the release of oxidative agents during inflammation increases the platelet-tethering activity of VWF contributing to a pro-thrombotic state. This has been linked to the oxidation of methionine residues in the A1, A2 and A3 domains of VWF. The A1 domain binds to platelet surface receptors glycoprotein Ib α (GpIbα). This interaction has been shown to be inhibited under static conditions by the neighboring A2 domain. Tensile force exerted by blood flow unfolds the A2 domain normally leading to its cleavage by the metalloprotease ADAMTS13 preventing pathological thrombus formation. However, oxidizing conditions inhibit proteolysis through ADAMTS13. Here, molecular dynamics simulations tested the hypothesis whether methionine oxidation induced by inflammatory conditions favors unfolding of the A2 domain contributing to the experimentally observed activation of VWF. The results indicate that oxidation of methionine residues located near the C-terminal helix of the A2 domain reduce the force necessary to initiate unfolding. Furthermore, oxidation of methionine residues shifts the thermodynamic equilibrium of the A2 domain fold towards the denatured state. This work suggests a mechanism whereby oxidation reduces the kinetic and thermodynamic stability of the A2 domain removing its inhibitory function on the binding of the A1 domain to GpIbα.

The D' domain of von Willebrand factor requires the presence of the D3 domain for optimal factor VIII binding.

The D'-D3 fragment of von Willebrand factor (VWF) can be divided into TIL'-E'-VWD3-C8_3-TIL3-E3 subdomains of which TIL'-E'-VWD3 comprises the main factor VIII (FVIII)-binding region. Yet, von Willebrand disease (VWD) Type 2 Normandy (2N) mutations, associated with impaired FVIII interaction, have been identified in C8_3-TIL3-E3. We now assessed the role of the VWF (sub)domains for FVIII binding using isolated D', D3 and monomeric C-terminal subdomain truncation variants of D'-D3. Competitive binding assays and surface plasmon resonance analysis revealed that D' requires the presence of D3 for effective interaction with FVIII. The isolated D3 domain, however, did not show any FVIII binding. Results indicated that the E3 subdomain is dispensable for FVIII binding. Subsequent deletion of the other subdomains from D3 resulted in a progressive decrease in FVIII-binding affinity. Chemical footprinting mass spectrometry suggested increased conformational changes at the N-terminal side of D3 upon subsequent subdomain deletions at the C-terminal side of the D3. A D'-D3 variant with a VWD type 2N mutation in VWD3 (D879N) or C8_3 (C1060R) also revealed conformational changes in D3, which were proportional to a decrease in FVIII-binding affinity. A D'-D3 variant with a putative VWD type 2N mutation in the E3 subdomain (C1225G) showed, however, normal binding. This implies that the designation VWD type 2N is incorrect for this variant. Results together imply that a structurally intact D3 in D'-D3 is indispensable for effective interaction between D' and FVIII explaining why specific mutations in D3 can impair FVIII binding.

Coupling of a specific photoreactive triple-helical peptide to crosslinked collagen films restores binding and activation of DDR2 and VWF

Collagen-based scaffolds may require chemical crosslinking to achieve mechanical properties suitable for tissue engineering. Carbodiimide treatment, often used for this purpose, consumes amino acid side chains required for receptor recognition, thus reducing cell–collagen interaction. Here, we restore recognition and function of both von Willebrand Factor (VWF) and Discoidin Domain Receptor 2 (DDR2) to crosslinked collagen films by derivatisation with a specific triple-helical peptide (THP), an approach previously applied to integrin-mediated cellular adhesion. The THP contained the collagen III-derived active sequence, GPRGQOGVNleGFO, conjugated to a photoreactive moiety, diazirine, allowing UV-dependent covalent coupling to collagen films. Crosslinking of collagen films attenuated the binding of recombinant VWF A3 domain and of DDR2 (as the GST and Fc fusions, respectively), and coupling of the specific THP restored their attachment. These derivatised films supported activation of DDR2 expressed in either COS-7 or HEK293 cells, reflected by phosphorylation of tyrosine 740, and VWF-mediated platelet deposition from flowing blood was restored. Further, such films were able to increase low-density lipoprotein uptake in vascular endothelial cells, a marker for endothelial phenotype. Thus, covalent linkage of specific THPs to crosslinked collagen films i) restores their cognate protein binding, ii) triggers the corresponding cellular responses, and iii) demonstrates the broad applicability of the approach to a range of receptors for applications in regenerative medicine.

Diversity and natural selection on the thrombospondin-related adhesive protein (TRAP) gene of Plasmodium knowlesi in Malaysia

BackgroundPlasmodium knowlesi a parasite of the macaques is currently the most common cause of human malaria in Malaysia. The thrombospondin-related adhesive protein (TRAP) gene is pre-erythrocytic stage antigen. It is a well-characterized vaccine candidate in Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium falciparum, however, no study has been done in the orthologous gene of P. knowlesi. This study investigates nucleotide diversity, haplotypes, natural selection and population differentiation of full-length pktrap genes in clinical samples from Malaysia.MethodsForty full-length pktrap sequences from clinical isolates of Malaysia along with the reference H-strain were downloaded from published databases. Genetic diversity, polymorphism, haplotype and natural selection were determined using DnaSP 5.10 software. McDonald–Kreitman test was conducted using P. vivax and Plasmodium coatneyi as ortholog sequence in DnaSP 5.10 software. Population genetic differentiation index (FST) of parasite populations was determined using Arlequin v3.5. Phylogenetic relationships between trap ortholog genes were determined using MEGA 5.0 software.ResultsComparison of 40 full-length pktrap sequences along with the H-strain identified 74 SNPs (53 non-synonymous and 21 synonymous substitutions) resulting in 29 haplotypes. Analysis of the full-length gene showed that the nucleotide diversity was lower compared to its nearest ortholog pvtrap. Domain-wise analysis indicated that the proline/asparagine rich region had higher nucleotide diversity compared to the von Willebrand factor domain and the thrombospondin-type-1 domain. McDonald–Kreitman test identified that the ratio of the number of nonsynonymous to synonymous polymorphic sites within P. knowlesi was significantly higher than that of the number of nonsynonymous to synonymous fixed sites between P. knowlesi and P. vivax. The von Willebrand factor domain also indicated balancing selection using MK test, however, it did not give significant results when tested with P. coatneyi as an outgroup. Phylogenetic analysis of full-length genes identified three distinct sub-clusters of P. knowlesi, one originating from Peninsular Malaysia and two originating from Malaysian Borneo. High population differentiation values was observed within samples from Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo.ConclusionsThis study is the first to report on the genetic diversity and natural selection of full-length pktrap. Low level of genetic diversity was found across the full-length gene of pktrap. Balancing selection of the von Willebrand factor domain indicated that TRAP could be a target in inducing immune response against P. knowlesi infections. However, higher number of samples would be necessary to further confirm the findings.

Abstract 535: Proteomics Identifies Endothelium-derived Clusterin as a Novel Regulator of Von Willebrand Factor Multimerization

Background: Secretion of vascular endothelial cells (ECs) is considered to be the first line of defense against vascular injury. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is one of the most important endothelial growth factors, involved in various endothelial functions including the regulatory secretion of ECs. However, the systematic analysis of the VEGF-induced secretory proteins has not yet been carried out. Objectives: To investigate the secretory proteins rapidly released from ECs under VEGF stimulation and their functions on the ECs. Methods: A non-serum culture system was established for analyzing the proteins secreted form human primary ECs in response to VEGF with mass spectrometry. Results: In the proteomic result, 362 proteins were identified and assigned to the VEGF-induced secretome, including the known von Willebrand factor (VWF), a multimeric protein mediating adhesion of platelets at vascular injury sites. Clusterin, a multifunctional protein involved in various diseases including Alzheimer disease and cancers, was selected for further study as a new VEGF-induced secretory protein. Clusterin was co-localized with VWF both in Weibel-Palade bodies (WPBs) and extracellular VWF strings of ECs. We showed that the localization of clusterin in pseudo-WPBs in 293T cells depends on the carboxy-terminal domains of VWF. Functional study showed that deficiency of clusterin in ECs increased the size of VWF multimers. Conclusions: We not only obtained a VEGF-induced secretome using primary ECs, but also determined clusterin as a novel component of WPBs, which is capable of maintaining the normal pattern of VWF multimers, and suggest its function on vascular thrombosis and haemostasis.

Prediction of spacer-\u03b16 complex: a novel insight into binding of ADAMTS13 with A2 domain of von Willebrand factor under forces

Force-regulated cleavage of A2 domain of von Willebrand factor (vWF) by ADAMTS13 is a key event in preventing thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). Recognition and cleavage depend on cooperative and modular contacts between several ADAMTS13 subdomains and discrete segments of vWF A2 domain. Spacer domain of ADAMTS13 contains an important exosite interacting with α6 helix of unfold A2 domain, but it remains unclear whether stretching of α6 regulates binding to spacer. To understand the molecular mechanism underlying the interactions between spacer and α6 under stretching, we successfully predicted spacer-α6 complex by a novel computer strategy combined the steered molecular dynamics (SMD) and flexible docking techniques. This strategy included three steps: (1) constant-velocity SMD simulation of α6; (2) zero-velocity SMD simulations of α6, and (3) flexible dockings of α6 to spacer. In our spacer-α6 complex model, 13 key residues, six in α6 and seven in spacer, were identified. Our data demonstrated a biphasic extension-regulated binding of α6 to spacer. The binding strength of the complex increased with α6 extension until it reaches its optimum of 0.25 nm, and then decreased as α6 extension further increased, meaning that spacer is in favor to binding with a partially extended α6, which may contribute to the optimal contact and proteolysis. Changes of interface area and intermolecular salt bridge may serve as the molecular basis for this characteristic. These findings provide a novel insight into mechano-chemical regulation on interaction between ADAMTS13 and vWF A2 domain under forces.

Describing the molecular mechanism by which the A2 protein improves survival in mice with endotoxemia.

Von Willebrand factor (VWF) is an essential protein that mediates the platelet adhesion to the exposed subendothelium surface and significantly contributes to arterial thrombosis and stroke. Secreted VWF from the stimulated endothelium as long strings remain anchored to the surface of the endothelial cells and interact with circulating platelets, leading to vessel occlusion. We have shown that the isolated A2 domain of VWF (A2 protein) contains bind activity for the A1 domain, vimentin, and fibrin(ogen). In fact, as a result of those interactions, the A2 protein impairs platelet adhesion to VWF and fibrin(ogen), formation of VWF strings on the endothelium, and fibrin polymerization. The A2 protein was effective in preventing fibrin‐rich microvascular thrombosis and improving survival (100%) of mice with endotoxemia (LPS)‐induced disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Thus, a goal was to identify the binding sites of A1 domain, vimentin, and fibrin in the A2 protein and dissect the mode of action by which the A2 protein recuperates the sick animals. To determine the amino acid residues that are important in the recognition for vimentin, A1 and fibrin, I used the crystal structure of the A2 domain as a guide for point mutations. Two mutations, E1523A and E1567A were introduced in the A2 protein. The purified mutants were tested for their binding capacity for the ligands using ELISA. Moreover, the A2 mutants were tested in mice with endotoxemia (LPS). We are now demonstrating that E1523A mutation had a reduced binding affinity for Vimentin and A1 domain. Strikingly, E1567A and E1523A mutations significantly abolished the binding to fibrin(ogen). Importantly, both mutations failed to replicate the beneficial effect of the wild type A2 protein in improving survival of mice with LPS‐induced DIC. Together, these findings suggest that the A2 protein impairs microvascular thrombosis in mice with endotoxemia mainly via its interaction with fibrin.Support or Funding InformationThis research was supported by funding provided by the following NIH Diversity Supplement: R01GM112806‐0351.This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.

Von Willebrand Factor, a Force-Selective Platelet Binder and Factor VIII Carrier

The ultra-large blood plasma protein von Willebrand factor (VWF) responds to hydrodynamic forces of the blood flow in unique ways. It undergoes a change of its multimeric superstructure from a globular compacted to a thread-like extended form by increasing flow. As a consequence of this large-scale deformation, tensile forces are transmitted to the functional domains of VWF inducing multiple local conformational changes, which in turn account for functional regulations. The primary function of VWF is to agglutinate platelets and so initiate blood clotting. Our fluorescence video microscopy had recently revealed that extension of VWF and activation of platelet binding are two separate steps with different force requirements. Here, we shed light onto the previously unclear mechanism of force dependent binding of platelet receptor Glycoprotein Ib (GPIb). By means of Hydrogen Deuterium Exchange Mass Spectrometry, kinetic binding measurements and genetic mutation, we pinpointed the force dependent structural change, responsible for GPIb binding, to a flexible glycosylated region that flanks the VWFA1 domain, providing a mechanism of mechanical activation of VWF. While GPIb and collagen binding is enhanced at increased flow, Factor VIII shows an opposed force dependence. Tensile forces in the VWF chain lead to a release of FVIII, even in absence of further biochemical activation pathways of FVIII, as shown here by Atomic Force Microscopy. The overarching hypothesis is that the multifunctional protein VWF has two types of binders, immobile compounds of the vessel walls or platelets, like collagen or GPIb, which increase their affinity upon mechanical stress, and plasma soluble active compounds, such as FVIII (and hypothetically inflammation markers), which decrease binding at higher forces. This would make VWF a mechanically operating drug deliverer, as VWF binds vessels and platelets to become extended and release the drugs.

Interaction of von Willebrand factor domains with collagen investigated by single molecule force spectroscopy.

von Willebrand factor (VWF) is a huge multimeric protein that plays a key role in primary hemostasis. Sites for collagen binding, an initial event of hemostasis, are located in the VWF-domains A1 and A3. In this study, we investigated single molecule interactions between collagen surfaces and wild type VWF A1A2A3 domain constructs, as well as clinically relevant VWF A3 domain point mutations, such as p.Ser1731Thr, p.Gln1734His, and p.His1786Arg. For this, we utilized atomic force microscopy based single molecular force spectroscopy. The p.Ser1731Thr mutant had no impact on the VWF-collagen type III and VI interactions, while the p.Gln1734His and p.His1786Arg mutants showed a slight increase in bond stability to collagen type III. This effect probably arises from additional hydrogen bonds that come along with the introduction of these mutations. Using the same mutants, but collagen type VI as a binding partner, resulted in a significant increase in bond stability. VWF domain A1 was reported to be essential for the interaction with collagen type VI and thus our findings strengthen the hypothesis that the VWF A1 domain can compensate for mutations in the VWF A3 domain. Additionally, our data suggest that the mutations could even stabilize the interaction between VWF and collagen without shear. VWF-collagen interactions seem to be an important system in which defective interactions between one VWF domain and one type of collagen can be compensated by alternative binding events.

Specific electrostatic interactions between charged amino acid residues regulate binding of von Willebrand factor to blood platelets

The plasma protein von Willebrand factor (VWF) is essential for hemostasis initiation at sites of vascular injury. The platelet-binding A1 domain of VWF is connected to the VWF N-terminally located D'D3 domain through a relatively unstructured amino acid sequence, called here the N-terminal linker. This region has previously been shown to inhibit the binding of VWF to the platelet surface receptor glycoprotein Ibα (GpIbα). However, the molecular mechanism underlying the inhibitory function of the N-terminal linker has not been elucidated. Here, we show that an aspartate at position 1261 is the most critical residue of the N-terminal linker for inhibiting binding of the VWF A1 domain to GpIbα on platelets in blood flow. Through a combination of molecular dynamics simulations, mutagenesis, and A1-GpIbα binding experiments, we identified a network of salt bridges between Asp1261 and the rest of A1 that lock the N-terminal linker in place such that it reduces binding to GpIbα. Mutations aimed at disrupting any of these salt bridges activated binding unless the mutated residue also formed a salt bridge with GpIbα, in which case the mutations inhibited the binding. These results show that interactions between charged amino acid residues are important both to directly stabilize the A1-GpIbα complex and to indirectly destabilize the complex through the N-terminal linker.

Type 2B von Willebrand disease with or without large multimers: A distinction of the two sides of the disorder is long overdue.

Most, but not all patients with type 2B von Willebrand disease (VWD)—which features gain-of-function mutations in the A1 domain of von Willebrand factor (VWF)—have no circulating large VWF multimers. Similarities and differences were analysed in 33 type 2B patients, 12 with a normal and 21 with an abnormal multimer pattern, to see whether they should be considered separately. The minimum aggregating dose of ristocetin was similarly reduced in both patient groups, and modulated by their underlying VWF mutations. Platelet VWF content was normal in all patients lacking in large multimers, but sometimes reduced in those with a normal multimer pattern. All the former patients and none of the latter had persistent or transient thrombocytopenia. A short VWF half-life (affecting plasma VWF levels) was seen in both groups, but more pronounced in patients without large multimers. Bleeding scores were also high in all patients, but more so in those without large multimers, apparently regardless of their platelet count. The marked phenotypic heterogeneity of type 2B VWD concerns not only patients’ VWF multimer pattern, but also their bleeding risk, and consequently their appropriate treatment too. Hence the need to clearly distinguish between type 2B VWD with normal or abnormal VWF multimers.

A Novel Single-Domain Antibody Against von Willebrand Factor A1 Domain Resolves Leukocyte Recruitment and Vascular Leakage During Inflammation-Brief Report.

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. 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. 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.

Enhanced Local Disorder in a Clinically Elusive von Willebrand Factor Provokes High-Affinity Platelet Clumping

Mutation of the cysteines forming the disulfide loop of the platelet GPIbα adhesive A1 domain of von Willebrand factor (VWF) causes quantitative VWF deficiencies in the blood and von Willebrand disease. We report two cases of transient severe thrombocytopenia induced by DDAVP treatment. Cys1272Trp and Cys1458Tyr mutations identified by genetic sequencing implicate an abnormal gain-of-function phenotype, evidenced by thrombocytopenia, which quickly relapses back to normal platelet counts and deficient plasma VWF. Using surface plasmon resonance, analytical rheology, and hydrogen–deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HXMS), we decipher mechanisms of A1-GPIbα-mediated platelet adhesion and resolve dynamic secondary structure elements that regulate the binding pathway. Constrained by the disulfide, conformational selection between weak and tight binding states of A1 takes precedence and drives normal platelet adhesion to VWF. Less restrained through mutation, loss of the disulfide preferentially diverts binding through an induced-fit disease pathway enabling high-affinity GPIbα binding and firm platelet adhesion to a partially disordered A1 domain. HXMS reveals a dynamic asymmetry of flexible and ordered regions common to both variants, indicating that the partially disordered A1 lacking the disulfide retains native-like structural dynamics. Both binding mechanisms share common structural and thermodynamic properties, but the enhanced local disorder in the disease state perpetuates high-affinity platelet agglutination, characteristic of type 2B VWD, upon DDAVP-stimulated secretion of VWF leading to transient thrombocytopenia and a subsequent deficiency of plasma VWF, characteristic of type 2A VWD.