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Elastin Fiber Integrity

Meaning

Elastin fiber integrity refers to the structural soundness, resilience, and functional quality of the elastin protein network within the extracellular matrix of connective tissues, most notably the skin, blood vessels, and lungs. Elastin is a highly elastic protein that allows tissues to stretch and recoil, providing essential mechanical flexibility. Maintaining high integrity means the fibers are correctly cross-linked and resistant to degradation by enzymes like elastase. Clinically, the loss of this integrity is a primary driver of skin laxity, wrinkling, and arterial stiffness, hallmarks of biological aging.