collagen VI-related myopathy Mutations in the COL6A3 gene have been found to cause some cases of collagen VI-related myopathy, which is a group of disorders that vary in severity but generally result in muscle weakness and joint deformities called contractures. These mutations often change single protein building blocks (amino acids) in the α3(VI) chain. The most frequently affected amino acid is glycine; changes to this building block disrupt the structure of the α3(VI) chain. Other mutations can also disrupt the structure of the α3(VI) chain. Mutations in the COL6A3 gene affect type VI collagen in different ways. Some mutations lead to altered α3(VI) chains that can be incorporated into the mature type VI collagen molecule, although they disrupt the molecule's structure and function. Other mutations result in an altered chain that cannot be incorporated at all. Still other mutations prevent the production of any functional α3(VI) chain, which impedes formation of type VI collagen. All of these COL6A3 gene mutations lead to a reduction or absence of functional collagen VI molecules. While it is difficult to predict the severity of collagen VI-related myopathy based on the type of mutation, in general, lower amounts of type VI collagen lead to more severe signs and symptoms that begin earlier in life. Changes in α3(VI) chain structure or production lead to an unstable extracellular matrix that is no longer attached to cells through the basement membrane. As a result, the stability of muscle cells and connective tissue progressively declines, which leads to the muscle weakness, contractures, and other signs and symptoms of collagen VI-related myopathy.

     The COL6A3 gene provides instructions for making one component of type VI collagen, which is a flexible protein found in the space that surrounds cells. Specifically, the protein produced from the COL6A3 gene is the alpha(α)3(VI) chain of type VI collagen. This chain combines with chains produced from other genes to produce a complete type VI collagen molecule. Collagens are found in the extracellular matrix, which is an intricate lattice that forms in the space between cells and provides structural support. Type VI collagen is located in the extracellular matrix surrounding cells that make up the muscles used for movement (skeletal muscle cells) and cells that make up connective tissue, which provides strength and flexibility to structures throughout the body, including skin and joints. The extracellular matrix is necessary for cell stability and growth. Research suggests that type VI collagen links basement membranes, which are thin, sheet-like structures that are part of the extracellular matrix, to nearby cells.

The following transcription factors affect gene expression:

• C/EBPalpha
• Bach2
• Msx-1
• NF-AT4
• NF-AT3
• NF-AT2

Molecular Function:

• Serine-Type Endopeptidase Inhibitor Activity

Biological Processes:

• Cell Adhesion
• Collagen Catabolic Process
• Extracellular Matrix Organization
• Muscle Organ Development