Predicted to be an extracellular matrix structural constituent conferring tensile strength. Predicted to be involved in extracellular matrix organization. Predicted to be located in basement membrane and extracellular region. Predicted to be part of collagen trimer. Predicted to be active in collagen-containing extracellular matrix and extracellular space. 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).