ADAMTS13

ADAMTS13, a metalloprotease predominantly found in hepatic stellate cells, is renowned for its ability to cleave von Willebrand factor (VWF) multimers that promote blood clotting. By targeting a specific peptide bond within VWF, this enzyme ensures that VWF remains at an optimal size to prevent unwarranted platelet clumping and thrombosis, thereby maintaining the body's coagulation equilibrium. The significance of ADAMTS13 is now more widely acknowledged in various disease pathways, including hematological disorders, liver conditions, and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health, as well as in infectious disease contexts. When ADAMTS13 activity is diminished, it can lead to an accumulation of oversized VWF multimers, triggering abnormal platelet aggregation and extensive microvascular thrombosis.