cells. However, it can also have other function such as a permeability barrier in the glomerulus (urine production). Some of the matrix molecules (of the basal lamina) mediate synaptic adhesion in neuromuscular synapses (citation: [edited by] Bradley G. Klein. Cunningham's Textbook of Veterinary Physiology. St. Louis, Mo. :Elsevier/Saunders, 2013. Print.-page61). Alport syndrome is a genetic disorder resulting from mutations in the COL4A3/4/5 genes. These genes are important in collagen IV synthesis and basement membrane formation. In individuals with this syndrome the basement membrane in structures such as the glomerulus, ears, and eyes does not function properly, causing symptoms such as blood in the urine, loss of hearing, and vision problems. See also Alveolar-capillary barrier Basolateral membrane Collagen Glomerular basement membrane Lamina propria Reticular lamina References External links MBInfo - The Extracellular Matrix and Basal Lamina Skin anatomy Histology