Collagen vs. Elastin — What's the Difference?

Collagen () is the main structural protein in the extracellular matrix found in the body's various connective tissues. As the main component of connective tissue, it is the most abundant protein in mammals, making up from 25% to 35% of the whole-body protein content.

Elastin is a key protein of the extracellular matrix. It is highly elastic and present in connective tissue allowing many tissues in the body to resume their shape after stretching or contracting.

The main structural protein found in skin and other connective tissues, widely used in purified form for cosmetic surgical treatments

A protein similar to collagen that is the principal structural component of elastic fibers.

Any of a class of extracellular proteins that are composed of three coiled polypeptide chains, form strong fibers, and are the main constituents of cartilage, bone, and other connective tissues in animals.

(protein) A protein, similar to collagen, found in connective tissue, that has elastic properties.

Material composed principally of collagen proteins. Collagen is converted into gelatin when boiled in water.

A nitrogenous substance, somewhat resembling albumin, which forms the chemical basis of elastic tissue. It is very insoluble in most fluids, but is gradually dissolved when digested with either pepsin or trypsin.

(biochemistry) Any of more than 28 types of glycoprotein that form elongated fibers, usually found in the extracellular matrix of connective tissue.

A fibrous scleroprotein found in elastic tissues such as the walls of arteries

The chemical basis of ordinary connective tissue, as of tendons or sinews and of bone. On being boiled in water it becomes gelatin or glue.

A fibrous scleroprotein in bone and cartilage and tendon and other connective tissue; yields gelatin on boiling