Collagen Type IV (CIV22), MMab

Summary and Explanation

Collagen is the main protein of connective tissue in animals and the most abundant protein in mammals, making up about 25% of the total protein content. Collagen IV is a major constituent of the basement membranes, along with laminins and enactins. It is composed of the alpha 1 IV chain and alpha 2 IV chain in a 2:1 ratio. It can form insoluble fibers with high tensile strength.

Normal tissue stains with this antibody in a manner consistent with the sites of mesenchymal elements and epithelial basal laminae. Antibody to collagen IV is useful in detecting the loss of parts of basement membrane in carcinomas. Collagen IV can also be useful in the classification of soft tissue tumors; Schwanomas, Leiomyomas, and their well-differentiated malignant counterparts usually immunoreact to this antibody. The vascular nature of neoplasms, Hemangiopericytoma, Angiosarcoma and Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma can be observed with this antibody.