How Does It Work?

Elastin is a structural protein. It allows the tissues in the body to perform a function such as expanding and returning to their original shapes. It is found mainly in the heart, lungs, intestines and skin, as these are the main organs that need the ability to stretch.

Mammals

Mammals produce the same amount of elastin proportionally when compared to the aortic radius no matter the species. The amount of elastin depends on the size of the organs and the extent of their function.

Production Cycle

Elastin is a tough protein, and once produced, it will not break down as normal proteins would. In mammals, elastin is produced until puberty, and when production ceases, aging begins.

The Gene

The DNA code for elastin is what triggers the production of the protein. In humans, the elastin gene is located on Chromosome 7.

When the Gene Goes Missing

Among the human species, there is a condition called Williams Syndrome. Symptoms include mild to moderate retardation, unusual facial features, sunken chest, colic and learning disorders. Humans have pairs of chromosomes, so in a healthy human being, there are two copies of the elastin gene. Among geneticists, it is believed that persons with Williams Syndrome have only one copy of the gene, causing blood vessels to narrow and as a result a lack of oxygen for organs.

Source:

Medline Plus: Williams Syndrome

Williams Syndrome Foundation: The Nature of Elastin

Circulation Research: A Lamellar Unit of Aortic Medial Structure and Function in Mammals