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From left: Professors Xiaohui (Frank) Zhang, Alparslan Oztekin, Xuanhong Cheng and Edmund Webb III (Photo by Douglas Benedict/Academic Image)

The research team at Lehigh University is working to identify the mechanisms that disable the molecule known as Von Willebrand Factor (vWF). This molecule acts as a “first responder” to major bleeding in the body.  vWF is essential in the blood clotting process.  At the site of a cut or laceration, vWf latches onto the lining of damaged blood vessels and uncoils in order to grab nearby platelet cells.  The groups research into the mechanical triggers of vWF could have the potential to help with blood clotting disorder treatment.  Even more, the implications of this research could go on to aid in the future of precise drug delivery.