Hyaluronic acid

BRIEF OVERVIEW

Hyaluronic acid is found naturally in our bodies, mostly in our eyes and joints. An average 70 kg person has 15 g of hyaluronic acid , and a third of it is degraded and synthesized each day. It is an anionic nonsulfated glycosaminoglycan. Hyaluronic acid is essential for keeping the skin hydrated as it has the ability to bind and retain water molecues. It acts as a hydrolipidic barrier and protects against bacteria.

In some cancers, hyaluronic acid levels correlate well with malignancy and poor prognosis. Hyaluronic acid is, thus, often used as a tumor marker for prostate and breast cancer. It may also be used to monitor the progression of the disease. Hyaluronic acid is widely used in synthesis of biological scaffolds for wound healing applications.

MANUFACTURING PROCESS

In our bodies, hyaluronic acid is synthesised by integral membrane proteins hyalurane synthase. The enzymes lengthen the hyaluronic acid chain. The enzymes lengthen hyaluronan by repeatedly adding glucuronic acid and N-acetylglucosamine. It is also manufactured in laboratories.

Health industry

Injecting hyaluronic acid into the eye is effective when used during cataract surgery by an eye surgeon. Hyaluronic acid is effective for treating mouth sores when applied to the skin as a gel. Hyaluronic acid might be effective for stiffness and joint pain when injected into the joint by a healthcare provider.

Cosmetics industry

Widely used as moisturising agent in creams. Nourishes skin deeply and removes marks and blemishes.