What is Elastin
Elastin is the primary component of elastic fibers in the dermal tissues, particularly in the connective tissues of tendons and arteries. The peptide chain of elastin contains over 713 amino acid residues, of which 95% are non-polar amino acids. Glycine accounts for nearly one-third of the total, proline makes up about 10%, and hydroxyproline constitutes approximately 1%. The hydroxyproline sequence in elastin features alternating hydrophobic and hydrophilic segments, with its cross-linked structure formed by oxidized lysyl residues into desmosine and isodesmosine.
Maintaining Skin Elasticity
Elastin plays a crucial role in skin elasticity and is a key component in anti-aging formulations.
Supporting Tissue Tension
Elastin provides structural support for the skin and other tissues, enabling them to quickly regain their original shape after being subjected to pressure.
Elasticity of Arterial Walls
In arterial walls, elastin serves as the primary extracellular matrix, essential for maintaining arterial elastic recoil and ensuring proper blood flow perfusion.
Tissue Engineering Scaffolds
Due to its excellent elasticity and extensibility, elastin is often used as a scaffold material in tissue engineering for repairing and reconstructing damaged tissues and organs, such as skin and blood vessels.
Dermal Substitute Products
Elastin can also serve as a dermal substitute for repairing and replacing damaged skin tissue. Owing to its good biocompatibility and biodegradability, elastin offers significant advantages in skin repair and regeneration.
Wound Repair and Healing
Products containing elastin can promote wound repair and healing. By utilizing elastin-based materials, the wound healing process can be accelerated, the risk of infection reduced, and tissue regeneration facilitated.
Injectable Hydrogels
Elastin exhibits hydrogel properties, making it suitable as a tissue filler to enhance skin elasticity and firmness.
