Description_x000D_ General description_x000D_ Each vial contains 1 μmole of purified desmosine._x000D_ Application_x000D_ Desmosine chloride is often used in assays for free or urinary desmosine as markers for disease states characterized by elastin degradation (e.g., emphysema). Elastin degradation has shown strong correlation with vascular calcification, and pretreatment with aluminum ions can inhibit the binding of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) to elastin._x000D_ Assays for free or urinary desmosine are often used as markers for disease states characterized by elastin degradation (e.g., emphysema). Conversely, excessive levels of incorporated desmosine are indicators of fibrotic conditions (e.g., cirrhosis)._x000D_ Biochem/physiol Actions_x000D_ Desmosine is a polyfunctional amino acid that forms cross-links in mature elastin._x000D_ Caution_x000D_ Extremely hygroscopic_x000D_ Analysis Note_x000D_ Calibrated by UV and amino acid analysis.