Collagen Type IV is a primary component of the basement membrane (BM). It is a specialized sheet-like extracellular matrix that surrounds specific cell types such as skeletal muscle cells, smooth muscle cells, heart muscle cells, and adipocytes in multicellular tissues. Collagen type IV is characterized as a nonfibril-forming collagen and is composed of six genetically distinct α-chain polypeptides. These chains have the potential to form 56 different combinations, resulting in various homotrimers. Through self-assembly, collagen type IV constructs organized networks that play a crucial role in maintaining the stability and assembly of the basement membrane (BM). Its presence is essential for the structural integrity and functionality of the BM.

The human placental collagen type IV (Sigma Aldrich 234154) is used:

• as a coating substrate for cell culture treated flasks to promote the growth and adhesion of CuFi-1 cells, providing reliable conditions for cell line propagation and maintenance
• to coat transwell inserts, providing a suitable substrate for the growth and formation of monolayers in intestinal organoid culture for trans epithelial electrical resistance (TEER) measurement and drug treatments
• to coat inserts for two-dimensional monolayer culture

Collagen Type IV interacts with numerous binding partners. Type IV collagen forms a structural scaffold within the basement membrane (BM) along with other macromolecules like laminins, heparan sulfate proteoglycans, fibronectin, and entactin. This complex network regulates the interaction between the BM and adhering cells, providing critical support and functionality. Thereby, regulates cell adhesion and migration.

Please refer to vial label for lot-specific concentration.

Toxicity: Standard Handling (A)

In sterile 2 mM HCl.

Miller, E.J., and Gay, S. 1987. Methods Enzymol. 144, 3.
Klasson, S.C., et al. 1986. Coll. Relat. Res.6, 397.
Glanville, R.W., et al. 1979. Eur. J. Biochem.95, 383.

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