Resilins

Resilins are a class of highly elastic proteins found in the musculoskeletal system of many animals, particularly insects. They are characterized by their ability to store and release energy with remarkable efficiency, enabling sustained and powerful movements such as wing flapping or jumping. Resilins are considered rubber-like in their mechanical properties, exhibiting a very high work recovery, meaning they return almost all the energy stored during deformation. This property is crucial for reducing metabolic costs associated with repeated movements. Structurally, resilins are rich in aromatic amino acids and are often cross-linked to form a complex network, contributing to their elastic nature. Their presence is widespread across various insect orders, playing a vital role in their locomotion and survival. The study of resilins has provided insights into biomaterials with potential applications in engineering, aiming to mimic their energy-storing capabilities.