COMPARISON OF ELASTINS FROM VARIOUS SOURCES

Abstract

Elastin preparations from bovine ligamentum nuchae, human aorta, and rabbit ear were compared. All three preparations were found to contain desmosine and isodesmosine. It is proposed that the presence of desmosine and isodesmosine be taken as diagnostic of elastin, as hydroxyproline is for collagen. The procedures for the isolation and qualitative determination of desmosine and isodesmosine are described. Some of the problems in obtaining 'pure elastins' are pointed out.