Collagen type IV alpha-6 chain (COL4A6)

Collagen type IV alpha-6 chain (COL4A6) is one of six alpha chains that make up type IV collagen, the principal structural protein of basement membranes in various tissues[1][4][7]. It forms highly specific heterotrimers, typically associating with the alpha-5(IV) chain, to impart mechanical stability and regulatory functions to basement membranes[4]. The COL4A6 gene is located on the X chromosome and shares a bidirectional promoter with COL4A5[1][4]. Mutations or deletions affecting COL4A6, often in conjunction with COL4A5, result in syndromes such as X-linked Alport syndrome (characterized by progressive nephritis and hearing loss) and diffuse leiomyomatosis[1][4][7]. The alpha6NC1 domain of COL4A6 can function as an endogenous inhibitor of angiogenesis and tumor growth[5]. Type IV collagen, including the alpha-6 chain, is essential in cell adhesion, tissue compartmentalization, and integrity of extracellular matrix structures such as the glomerular basement membrane[4][7]. There are no known small molecule drugs or clinical biologics directly targeting this chain, and it is not currently considered a classical therapeutic target such as a receptor, enzyme, or transporter. Structural characteristics: Like other type IV collagen chains, COL4A6 contains a collagenous triple-helical domain flanked by non-collagenous domains, which facilitate crosslinking and network formation within basement membranes[4]. Pathway involvement: It participates in collagen chain trimerization, and integrin-extracellular matrix interactions[7].

Other names

Collagen alpha-6(IV) chainCOL4A6CXDELq22.3DELXq22.3DFNX6dJ889N15.4Collagen IV alpha-6 polypeptideCollagen, type IV, alpha 6