How proteins interact to cause blood clotting

Characterising the interaction of Von Willebrand Factor with TREML-1 and its role in haemostasis and thrombosis

Von Willebrand Factor (VWF) is a large blood protein that helps blood clotting by interacting with platelets when the blood vessels are injured. Platelets are a type of cell found in blood that help to plug a wound and prevent blood loss. However, excessive VWF and platelet binding within a blood vessel can contribute to heart attacks and stroke. Dr Thomas McKinnon from Imperial College London has identified a protein present on the platelet surface called TREML-1, and discovered that it binds to VWF. TREML-1 can also be released into the bloodstream and prevents platelets binding to VWF, but helps platelets to stick to the cells that line the blood vessels instead. The BHF has awarded Dr McKinnon a grant to establish how TREML-1 binds to VWF and what effect this interaction has on both proteins in helping blood to clot. They will also investigate if preventing TREML-1 binding to VWF or preventing TREML-1 from functioning could help to prevent excessive, unwanted blood clotting. This research may lead to new anti-clotting treatments that do not cause excessive bleeding.