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Updated: Jun 25, 2026
07:54
In vitro Synthesis of Native, Fibrous Long Spacing and Segmental Long Spacing Collagen
Published on: September 20, 2012
Collagenous transmembrane proteins: collagen XVII as a prototype
Claus-Werner Franzke1, Kaisa Tasanen, Hauke Schumann
1Departments of Dermatology, University of Freiburg, Hauptstr 7, Freiburg D-79104, Germany.
Summary
Collagenous transmembrane proteins are versatile cell receptors and matrix molecules. This review details their structure, function, and roles in diseases like epidermolysis bullosa and Alzheimer disease.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Collagenous transmembrane proteins are integral membrane proteins with extracellular collagenous domains.
- These proteins exhibit structural similarities, including a coiled-coil linker domain for trimerization.
- Some members can be shed from the cell surface, releasing soluble collagen forms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the structure and functions of known collagenous transmembrane proteins.
- To delineate the biology and pathophysiology of collagen XVII as a prototype member.
- To highlight their involvement in diverse biological processes and human diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing research.
- Structural analysis of collagenous transmembrane protein domains.
- Examination of functional roles in cell adhesion, morphogenesis, and host defense.
Main Results:
- Seven members of this protein family share conserved structural features.
- These proteins are implicated in epithelial and neural cell adhesion and morphogenesis.
- Dysfunction is linked to human diseases such as epidermolysis bullosa, bullous pemphigoid, and Alzheimer disease.
Conclusions:
- Collagenous transmembrane proteins are crucial for various physiological processes.
- Collagen XVII plays a key role in epidermal structure and is involved in skin diseases.
- Further research into this protein group may reveal new therapeutic targets for associated diseases.
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