Collagen, type IV, alpha 4
Collagen, Type IV, Alpha 4
Collagen, type IV, alpha 4 is a protein that is encoded by the COL4A4 gene in humans. It is a crucial component of the basement membrane, a specialized structure that supports and separates different tissue types. Type IV collagen is unique among collagens in that it forms a network rather than fibrils, providing structural support and playing a role in filtration processes in the kidneys.
Structure
Type IV collagen is a non-fibrillar collagen that forms a sheet-like network. It is composed of three alpha chains, which can be any combination of the six different type IV collagen alpha chains (α1-α6). The alpha 4 chain, encoded by the COL4A4 gene, can pair with other type IV collagen chains to form heterotrimers. These trimers then assemble into a meshwork that is essential for the structural integrity of basement membranes.
Function
The primary function of type IV collagen is to provide structural support to basement membranes. It is involved in cell adhesion, migration, and differentiation. In the kidneys, type IV collagen is a major component of the glomerular basement membrane (GBM), where it plays a critical role in the filtration barrier that separates blood from urine.
Clinical Significance
Mutations in the COL4A4 gene can lead to several genetic disorders, most notably Alport syndrome and thin basement membrane nephropathy (TBMN). Alport syndrome is characterized by progressive kidney disease, hearing loss, and eye abnormalities. It is caused by defects in the type IV collagen network, leading to a compromised GBM. TBMN, on the other hand, is a milder condition that results in hematuria (blood in urine) due to a thin GBM.
Research and Therapeutic Implications
Research into type IV collagen, particularly the alpha 4 chain, is ongoing to better understand its role in kidney diseases and other conditions involving basement membranes. Potential therapeutic approaches include gene therapy to correct mutations in the COL4A4 gene and the development of drugs that can stabilize or mimic the function of type IV collagen networks.
Also see
- Collagen
- Basement membrane
- Alport syndrome
- Thin basement membrane nephropathy
- Glomerular basement membrane
| Collagen | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Overview | |
| Type | Protein |
| Function | Structural component of connective tissues |
| Location | Skin, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, bone, blood vessels |
| Types | |
| Related Topics | |
| See Also | |
Transform your life with W8MD's budget GLP-1 injections from $125.
W8MD offers a medical weight loss program to lose weight in Philadelphia. Our physician-supervised medical weight loss provides:
- Most insurances accepted or discounted self-pay rates. We will obtain insurance prior authorizations if needed.
- Generic GLP1 weight loss injections from $125 for the starting dose.
- Also offer prescription weight loss medications including Phentermine, Qsymia, Diethylpropion, Contrave etc.
NYC weight loss doctor appointments
Start your NYC weight loss journey today at our NYC medical weight loss and Philadelphia medical weight loss clinics.
- Call 718-946-5500 to lose weight in NYC or for medical weight loss in Philadelphia 215-676-2334.
- Tags:NYC medical weight loss, Philadelphia lose weight Zepbound NYC, Budget GLP1 weight loss injections, Wegovy Philadelphia, Wegovy NYC, Philadelphia medical weight loss, Brookly weight loss and Wegovy NYC
|
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
| Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
