Molecular packing in network-forming collagens.

Different collagen types can vary considerably in length, molecular weight, chemical composition, and the way they interact with each other to form molecular aggregates. Collagen Types IV, VI, VIII, X, and dogfish egg case collagen make linear and lateral associations to form open networks rather than fibers. The roles played by these network-forming collagens are diverse: they can act as support and anchorage for cells and tissues, serve as molecular filters, and even provide protective permeable barriers for developing embryos. Their functional properties are intimately linked to their molecular organization. This Chapter reviews what is known about the molecular structure of this group of collagens, describes the ways the molecules interact to form networks, and-despite the large variations in molecular size-identifies common aggregation themes.