Elastin's origin can be traced to the evolutionary divergence of jawed and jawless fishes.
Elastin, a crucial protein for tissue elasticity, has an interesting evolutionary history. Unlike other matrix proteins, it emerged relatively late in evolutionary time. According to the provided reference, elastin appeared at the point where jawed and jawless fishes diverged. This places its appearance in the evolutionary timeline sometime after the emergence of lower chordates.
Evolutionary Timeline of Elastin
| Organism Group | Elastin Presence |
|---|---|
| Lampreys | Absent |
| Other Lower Chordates | Absent |
| Invertebrates | Absent |
| Jawed Fishes (Sharks) | Present |
| All Species from Sharks to Humans | Present |
Key Takeaways:
- Late Emergence: Elastin appeared relatively late in evolution compared to proteins like collagens or laminins.
- Vertebrate Specific: Elastin is present in all vertebrate species from sharks to humans, but absent in jawless fishes (like lampreys), other lower chordates, and invertebrates.
- Critical for Jawed Vertebrates: The emergence of elastin is likely connected to the unique needs and biomechanics of jawed vertebrates.
This information indicates that elastin became a significant protein feature in the vertebrate lineage shortly after the development of jaws, highlighting its importance for the structural integrity and functionality of tissues in these animals.
