Elastin

Overview

Elastin is an insoluble, , fibrous Glycoprotein (Scleroprotein) manufactured by Fibroblasts (specialized Cells).  It forms very fine fibers which can stretch and recoil like rubber due to the presence of loops in its Polypeptide chains.  Elastin is more flexible than Collagen.

Cardiovascular System

 Blood Vessels affected by Aneurysm contain less Elastin compared with normal Blood Vessels.  ^[1]

 Elastin is a component of Blood Vessels (it increases the elasticity of Blood Vessels).  ^[2]

 Elastin is a constituent of the Intima of Blood Vessels.

Immune System

 Elastin is a constituent of the Intima of Lymph Vessels.

Musculoskeletal System

 Elastin comprises 2% - 5% of all Connective Tissue:

 Elastin is a major component of the Extracellular Matrix:

 Elastin is a major component of the Intima of Blood Vessels and Lymph Vessels.

 Elastin is a component of the Tendons.

Respiratory System

 Elastin is a component of the Connective Tissues of the Lungs.

Skin

 Elastin (kappa-Elastin form applied topically) may stimulate the growth of Fibroblasts.  ^[3]

 Elastin is an important constituent of the Connective Tissues of the Skin (where it provides elasticity to the Skin):

 Degradation of and reduced production of Elastin (which occurs in tandem with the progression of the Aging Process) is one of the principal causes of Wrinkles.

            Cosmeceutical products that contain Elastin (applied topically) are claimed to reduce fine Wrinkles, diminish under Eye bags and increase the suppleness of the Skin on the face and body.

The claim that Elastin may reduce fine Wrinkles has not been well-proven medically and the comments regarding the non-bioavailability of exogenous, topically applied native Elastin (and hydrolysed Elastin) below should be noted when assessing this claim.

Scleroproteins

 Elastin interweaves with Collagen fibers to provide them with more flexibility.

Amino Acids

 Alanine is a constituent of the Elastin molecule.

 Desmosine is an important constituent of Elastin - it is one of the two constituents of Elastin that permit Elastin to stretch and regain its original shape.