Conformational transitions of alpha-elastin.

The alpha-elastin, the soluble product obtained from elastin by oxalic acid hydrolysis, has been studied from a conformational point of view in different conditions using circular dichroism spectroscopy. The spectral variations of the alpha-elastin dissolved in water and in different organic solvents/water mixtures have been examined in order to establish the effect of the solvents on the structural properties of the protein. The effect of calcium ions has also been studied on alpha-elastin dissolved either in water or in organic solvents. Finally, the effect of pH and temperature on the conformational properties of the alpha-elastin has been investigated.