Elastin dose-controlled mineral deposition by masking collagen-binding sites for calcium ions

Bone and blood vessel mineralization are representative of physiological and pathological mineralization, respectively. Collagen and elastin play important roles in regulating mineralization. Minerals are more readily deposited on elastin than on collagen. However, this observation is not consistent with the physiologic state of bone and blood vessels. Therefore, the present study investigated the effects of collagen and elastin on mineral deposition in the context of the structural composition of bone and blood vessels. The results indicated that the dose of elastin to collagen has a dual effect on mineral deposition. Elastin could regulate the binding sites of calcium ions on collagen when the proportional dosage to collagen was adjusted, thereby controlling mineral adsorption and inducing the development of mineralized collagen with controllable mineralization, structure, and mechanical properties. This study highlighted the critical role of the extracellular matrix in mineralization. In addition, elastin and collagen are common biomaterials used in the scaffolds and grafts for blood vessels and bone. An investigation of the mechanical properties and the degree of mineralization of collagen and elastin after mixing can provide novel insights for designing biomaterials and preventing secondary injuries caused by implantation.