Collagen VI plays many different roles in the cell depending on which tissue in which it is expressed. ColVI maintains a mechanical function in the cell, which is typical of most types of Collagen, by providing stability and structural support in the ECM. ColVI allows muscle cells to connect with the ECM by interacting with perlecan in the basal lamina.Kuo, H.-J., Maslen, C. L., Keene, D. R. and Glanville, R. W. (1997). Type VI collagen anchors endothelial basement membranes by interacting with type IV collagen. J. Biol. Chem. 272, 26522-26529. doi:10.1074/jbc.272.42.26522 ColVI also functions as a cytoprotective agent:
