Basal membrane proteins]

The review summarizes recent achievements in biochemistry of basal lamina which is highly specialized structural element of extracellular matrix. Structural and functional characteristics of main basal lamina proteins are reviewed including collagen type IV, laminin, nidogen, and heparan sulfate-containing proteoglycans. Special attention is paid to characteristics of structure and biochemical composition of renal glomerular basal lamina which is one of the main components of renal filtration barrier. Possible methods of investigation and characterization of new basal lamina proteins are discussed which help in understanding of biochemical composition of this structure.