Effect of the factor XIII Val34Leu polymorphism on cross-linked fibrin structure.

Scanning electron micrographs of fibrin clots cross-linked by factor XIII Val34 (A) and factor XIII Leu34 (B). The clots were made from plasma samples homozygous for each Val34Leu allele. Fibrin cross-linked by the Leu34 variant of factor XIII, which is associated with a protective effect on thrombotic disorders, consists of thinner fibers and has altered permeation characteristics.112