Involved in mediating cell attachment and inducing integrin-mediated cellular reactions, such as cell spreading and alterations in cell morphology. Homotrimer. Interacts with FBN1, fibronectin and integrins ITGA1/ITGB1 and ITGA2/ITGB1. Integrin ITGA1/ITGB1 binds to a unique site within COL16A1 located close to its C-terminal end between collagenous domains COL1-COL3. In papillary dermis, is a component of specialized fibrillin-1-containing microfibrils, whereas in territorial cartilage matrix, it is localized to a discrete population of thin, weakly banded collagen fibrils in association with other collagens (at protein level). In the placenta, where it is found in the amnion, a membranous tissue lining the amniotic cavity. Within the amnion, it is found in an acellular, relatively dense layer of a complex network of reticular fibers. Also located to a fibroblast layer beneath this dense layer. Exists in tissues in association with other types of collagen. Transiently elevated expression during gestation, and decrease at term. This sequence defines eighteen different domains, nine triple-helical domains (COL9 to COL1) and ten non-triple-helical domains (NC10 to NC1). The numerous interruptions in the triple helix may make this molecule either elastic or flexible. Prolines at the third position of the tripeptide repeating unit (G-X-Y) are hydroxylated in some or all of the chains. Glycosylated. Belongs to the fibril-associated collagens with interrupted helices (FACIT) family.