ABSTRACT
The coilagens are a group of proteins located in the extracellular matrix whose important functions include (1) mechanical solidity, resistance of connective tissues, and cohesion of organs, (2) support of cell layers (e.g., in the case of basement membrane), and (3) induction of division and development of epithelial or endothelial cells during growth of the organism or repair of wounds, and guidance of these cells into their proper position in the whole tissue.
