COL5A2

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

Mutations in the COL5A2 gene have been identified in a small number of people with a form of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome called the classical type. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is a group of disorders that affect the connective tissues that support the skin, bones, blood vessels, and many other organs and tissues. This form of the disorder is characterized by skin that is soft, highly stretchy (elastic), and fragile; abnormal scarring; and an unusually large range of joint movement (hypermobility). About 20 COL5A2 gene mutations have been identified in people with classical Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. These mutations, which affect one copy of the gene in each cell, change the structure of the pro-α2(V) chain. As a result, fibrils containing type V and type I collagens are disorganized and larger than usual. Researchers believe that the abnormal collagen weakens connective tissues throughout the body, which causes the signs and symptoms of classical Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.