Elastin: the rubber band of life

You may recognize elastin as a key ingredient in youthful skin, but did you know it’s also an essential component of your heart, lungs, and blood vessels? Recent advances in elastin preservation and regeneration research are unlocking promising pathways toward improved tissue health and longevity.

Dr. Narendra Vyavahare is at the forefront of this exciting field. With a distinguished career focused on heart valve biomaterials, site-specific therapies, and extracellular matrix remodeling, Dr. Vyavahare’s work is transforming our understanding of tissue regeneration. As Director of the NIH-funded South Carolina Bioengineering Center for Regeneration and Formation of Tissues (SC BioCRAFT), he leads pioneering research with over 150 publications and six book chapters to his name. His innovations are protected by 13 international and US patents—several of which have been licensed to companies developing life-changing medical products.

Currently, Dr. Vyavahare’s research is expanding into targeted treatments aimed at restoring extracellular matrix and tissue function in a range of conditions, including heart valve disease, aortic aneurysms, vascular calcification, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and various skin disorders. His work not only deepens scientific insight but also holds real promise for clinical therapies that could enhance quality of life and longevity.

This captivating talk was delivered at a TEDx event, independently organized by a local community following the TED conference format. To learn more about the groundbreaking potential of elastin research, stay tuned for upcoming talks and publications.