Predicted to be an extracellular matrix structural constituent conferring tensile strength. Involved in Malpighian tubule development; basement membrane organization; and somatic muscle development. Located in basement membrane. Is expressed in several structures, including adult CNS glial cell; circulatory system primordium; embryonic/larval hemocyte; fat body; and gut section. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in brain small vessel disease 1; myocardial infarction; retinal arterial tortuosity; and uterine fibroid. Orthologous to human COL4A1 (collagen type IV alpha 1 chain).
FB Description
viking (vkg) encodes a subunit of Collagen IV and a major component of basement membranes. It is secreted by haemocytes and fat body cells and is required for the normal morphogenesis of many tissues. It also contributes to TGF-beta signalling in the early embryo and the developing Malpighian tubules.