Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronan

Hyaluronic Acid (C14H21NO11) is a naturally occurring glucosaminoglycan, composed of disaccharide units of D-glucuronic acid and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine. It plays crucial roles in numerous physiological processes due to its unique properties and location within the body.

Overview

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a key component of the extracellular matrix in connective tissues, where it contributes to tissue hydrodynamics, movement, and proliferation of cells. It is also found in the skin, vitreous humour, umbilical cord, synovial fluid, and the capsule of certain microorganisms.

Structure and Function

HA is a high molecular weight polymer. Its disaccharide units consist of D-glucuronic acid and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine, linked together through alternating beta-1,4 and beta-1,3 glycosidic bonds.

Hyaluronic Acid's primary function is to bind water and to lubricate movable parts of the human body, such as muscles and joints. It imparts mechanical stability and viscoelasticity to tissues and fluids, while also playing roles in cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration.

Role in Human Body

Skin In skin, HA is involved in hydration, microcirculation, and nutrient delivery, contributing to the skin's overall health and appearance. It is also a key component in the process of wound healing and tissue repair.

Joints HA is a major component of the synovial fluid, where it serves as a lubricant, shock absorber and helps in the transportation of nutrients to the cartilage.

Eyes In the eye, HA contributes to the volume of the vitreous humor, maintaining intraocular pressure and eye shape.

Medical and Cosmetic Use

Given its biological properties, HA is widely used in cosmetic procedures, often in form of dermal fillers to reduce wrinkles and lines, and increase volume and hydration of the skin. Medically, it's used in eye surgeries, osteoarthritis treatment and wound healing.

Safety and Side Effects

When administered properly by a healthcare provider, HA is generally safe, though side effects can occur. They may include redness, pain, or swelling at the injection site. More serious side effects are rare.

See Also

• Glucosaminoglycans
• Extracellular matrix
• Dermatology
• Osteoarthritis

References

• Fraser, J.R.E., Laurent, T.C., Laurent, U.B.G. (1997). "Hyaluronan: its nature, distribution, functions and turnover". Journal of Internal Medicine, 242: 27–33. doi:10.1046/j.1365-2796.1997.00170.x.
• Papakonstantinou, E., Roth, M., Karakiulakis, G. (2012). "Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging". Dermato-Endocrinology, 4: 253–258. doi:10.4161/derm.21923.
• Balazs, E.A., Denlinger, J.L. (1982). "Clinical uses of hyaluronic acid". Ciba Foundation Symposium, 143: 265–275. discussion 275–279, 281–285. doi:10.1002/9780470720844.ch17.
• Necas, J., Bartosikova, L., Brauner, P., Kolar, J. (2008). "Hyaluronic acid (hyaluronan): a review". Veterinarni Medicina, 53: 397–411.

External Links

• Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging
• Therapeutic applications of hyaluronic acid

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