The function of COL8A2 (collagen type VIII alpha 2 chain, ENSG00000171812) is as follows. Macromolecular component of the subendothelium. Major component of the Descemet's membrane (basement membrane) of corneal endothelial cells. Also a component of the endothelia of blood vessels. Necessary for migration and proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells and thus, has a potential role in the maintenance of vessel wall integrity and structure, in particular in atherogenesis (By similarity). .