Functional Characterization of Connective Tissues in a Collagen XIV Knockout Mouse
We are investigating the role of collagen XIV in connective tissues in our laboratory. We chose this collagen because it is highly developmentally regulated and is ubiquitous in connective tissues. It is a member of the fibrillar associated collagen family or FACITs and is thought to interact mainly with type I collagen. Collagen XIV is thought to play a role in fibrillogenesis since it is developmentally regulated. Not only is it developmentally regulated but it has been demonstrated that collagen XIV is highly expressed during periods of fibril linear growth. In addition, collagen XIV is often found specifically in areas of high mechanical stress. Localization to these areas indicates that collagen XIV may affect the mechanical properties of a tissue. Therefore, the aim of our study was to utilize a knock out mouse model to investigate the role of collagen XIV on the biomechanical properties of normal skin, patellar tendon, and the flexor digitorum longus tendon (FDL). In addition to examining different tissue, varying ages of mice are also being investigated for further insight into collagen XIV's role throughout life.
For more information see:
Ansorge HL, Beason DP, Meng X, Birk DE, Soslowsky LJ: Functional Characterization of Connective Tissues in a Collagen XIV Knockout Mouse, Trans Orthop Res Soc, 32:26, 2007.