Elastin Structure, Biosynthesis, and Relation to Disease States

Abstract

Elastin, a component of connective tissue, is present in virtually every organ of the body. Its role is unique and undoubtedly important, even though it may make up only a small percentage of a tissue. Its role is being appreciated increasingly in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, emphysema, and other diseases.Definitions and MorphologyElastin is the functional protein component of the elastic fiber, the component of connective tissue that has an amorphous, highly refractive, generally wavy appearance under the light microscope. When elastin is stretched, its waviness disappears and it takes on increased birefringence, which is usually attributed to a . . .