The von VWF is a multimeric plasma glycoprotein with an important role in haemostasis and thrombus formation.24 High VWF plasma levels are an established independent risk factor for LA thrombus and stroke in patients with AF, but most of the previous studies have mainly focused on quantitative abnormalities in VWF expression.19 Qualitative changes in VWF activity in relation to LA thrombus and stroke have not been assessed before. The gene discussed is VWF; the disease is atrial fibrillation.