Collagen type VI (Collagen VI (often abbreviated as ColVI))

Collagen type VI is a structurally and functionally unique member of the collagen family, primarily located in the extracellular matrix of various tissues, especially skeletal muscle, skin, tendon, and cartilage[1][3][5]. It is composed mainly of three chains—alpha 1(VI), alpha 2(VI), and alpha 3(VI)—encoded by the COL6A1, COL6A2, and COL6A3 genes, with additional alpha chains (α4-α6) encoded by COL6A4, COL6A5, and COL6A6[1][2][5]. Collagen VI assembles into beaded microfilament networks that serve as an interface between cells and the extracellular matrix, enabling structural support, cell anchorage, and mechanotransduction[1][3][5]. It has cytoprotective roles, including inhibition of apoptosis and oxidative stress, and is implicated in regulating cell differentiation, stemness, and tissue repair[1][3][5]. Mutations or altered expression of collagen VI cause a spectrum of congenital muscular dystrophies, with disease severity depending on the impact on matrix assembly and stability[7][8]. Collagen VI has also been linked to cancer biology and fibrotic diseases due to its role in cell–matrix interactions and tissue remodeling[1][3].

Other names

Collagen VIColVIType VI collagenCollagen alpha-1(VI) chain (COL6A1)Collagen alpha-2(VI) chain (COL6A2)Collagen alpha-3(VI) chain (COL6A3)Collagen alpha-4/5/6(VI) chains (COL6A4, COL6A5, COL6A6)

No direct drug mechanism; gene therapy or molecular approaches aim to restore normal collagen VI assembly in genetic diseases[7].