[Elastin: preparation, characterization, structure, biosynthesis and catabolism]

Abstract

Elastin is a component of elastic fibers. It is localized in aorta, lung and skin. Its major property is elasticity. This hydrophobic protein contains two specific cross-links: desmosine and isodesmosine. Elastogenesis begins about mid-gestation in most mammalian tissues, continues at a high rate through late foetal and early neonatal stages and is most completely repressed by maturity. More recent studies were carried out on the gene and the regulation of elastin gene expression. A receptor for elastin peptides was also evidenced.