Elastin

usgb/ɪˈlæstɪn/
noun

A flexible substance in the body that helps tissues return to their original shape after being stretched or contracted.

Collagen provides skin its firmness while elastin gives skin its elasticity.
Visual representation of "elastin" - A flexible substance in the body that helps tissues return to their original shape after being stretched or contracted.

Often appears as...

  • lack of elastin
  • elastin production

Usage tips

Technical

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "elastin"
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Biological Role

Elastin enables flexibility in tissues like skin and lungs, vital for functions like breathing.

Illustration for Biological Role
Aging reduces the natural elastin in our skin, leading to wrinkles.
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Scientific Context

Use 'elastin' when discussing tissue mechanics, not general flexibility or stretchiness.

Illustration for Scientific Context
Researchers are studying how elastin contributes to arterial flexibility.
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Not Interchangeable

'Elastin' is specifically a body protein, and shouldn't be confused with 'elastic', used for stretchy materials.

Illustration for Not Interchangeable
The elastin in our connective tissues isn't the same as the elastic in our clothes.
Visual representation of the word "Elastin"

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