What is Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid (Hyaluron, HA) is a naturally occurring polysaccharide molecule found in humans and other organisms. It is widely distributed in the human body, primarily present in the skin, joint fluid, eyes, and connective tissues.

HA Structure

The basic structure of hyaluronic acid consists of two types of sugar molecules arranged alternately:

• D-Glucuronic Acid (GlcA)
• N-Acetyl-D-Glucosamine (GlcNAc)

These two monosaccharides are alternately connected with β-1,3 and β-1,4 glycosidic linkages to disaccharide repeating units. This specific linkage allows HA to possess a linear, unbranched conformation, which avoids branching and complex three-dimensional arrangements, ensuring its high water capacity and fluidity. The carboxyl and hydroxyl groups provide opportunities for HA chemical modification. Hence, it can be synthesized into various hydrogels, fillers, and biomedical materials for various applications.

Fig 1. Hyaluronan hydrophilic properties[1]

HA Physiological Functions

As mentioned earlier, hyaluronic acid exists in tissues such as the skin, joints, and eyes in the human body, where it performs important functions:

• Skin: Protects the moisture and elasticity of the skin, softens wrinkles, and delays aging.
• Joints: Lubricates joints, reduces friction, and alleviates arthritis symptoms.
• Eyes: Aids in maintaining the shape and lubrication of the eyeball.

Besides this, hyaluronic acid also serves an important physiological function of wound healing.

Why Hyaluronic Acid Can Heal Wounds

Hyaluronic acid is naturally present in the human body. Endogenous HA and exogenous HA are chemically extremely close. Therefore, the application of hyaluronic acid products in wound healing reduces immune system recognition and rejection reactions. Furthermore, HA is a biodegradable compound, which is degraded by hyaluronidases over time, preventing the accumulation and potential toxicity of the compound in the body. In general, hyaluronic acid is safe, non-toxic, and bio-metabolizable, providing the foundation for it to act as a material in wound healing.

Of course, biocompatibility is just a foundation; the important thing is that hyaluronic acid plays in a number of different functions during the wound healing process through various mechanisms.

Fig 2. Wound healing process[2]

1. Hemostasis

Hemostasis is the first step in wound healing. The mechanism of hemostasis is to stop bleeding by platelet aggregation and blood clotting, sealing the wound from infection. HA can bind to CD44 receptors on the platelet surface, promoting platelet activation and aggregation, and blood clot formation. In addition, HA’s high molecular weight and viscoelasticity allow it to form a viscous physical barrier on the wound surface, restricting blood loss.

2. Inflammatory Phase

During this phase, inflammatory mediators are released so that leukocytes and other immune cells can migrate into the wound site. They suppress infection, debride the wound, and create good conditions for tissue repair and regeneration. During this phase, the primary role of HA is to induce the migration and proliferation of inflammatory cells. While this increases the inflammatory response, exogenous HA also has anti-inflammatory activity. Some studies show that exogenous HA has been found to reduce the infiltration of inflammatory cells and decrease the inflammatory response. In conclusion, HA guarantees the wound healing is enhanced by the optimal amount of inflammation.

3. Proliferation Phase

The proliferation phase is the critical phase of healing wounds, including angiogenesis, epithelial cell migration and proliferation, and repair of extracellular matrix. During this phase, HA plays a range of roles:

• Promotes Cell Migration and Development: HA triggers fibroblast and epithelial cell proliferation, enabling the wound to close rapidly.
• Promotes Angiogenesis: HA stimulates the growth of new blood vessels to supply new tissue with oxygen and nutrients.
• Enables Extracellular Matrix Development: HA stimulates the production of collagen, reconstitutes tissue structure, and enhances wound strength.
• Retains the Wound Moist: HA keeps the wound in a moist state to enable cell functioning and infection prevention, thereby accelerating healing.

4. Remodeling Phase

The remodeling stage is the final phase of the healing process. In this stage, HA takes part in control of reorganization of collagen to make tissue tougher and elastic as well as preclude scar formation. The previously mentioned anti-inflammatory properties of HA continue to play a role in this phase. It can reduce local inflammation in the wound, promoting the recovery of healthy tissue. Moreover, HA can also promote the synthesis of elastin. With the support of elastin, the healed skin experiences less tightness, restoring its original elasticity and flexibility.

What are the Hyaluronic Acid-Based Dressings

Given the powerful healing property of hyaluronic acid, how can researchers disregard it? Its most common applications are HA-based dressings.

Hyaluronic acid dressings are medical wound-covering agents composed of sodium hyaluronate (sodium salt of HA) that provide an extremely conducive microenvironment for wound repair. They can also be blended with other substances, such as antimicrobial silver ions, collagen, chitosan, etc. Depending on the applications, they exist in various forms.

Fig 3. Hyaluronic Acid-Based Dressings[3]

1. Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogel Dressings

Hyaluronic acid hydrogels are the most advanced and versatile type of HA dressings. They are formed through physical or chemical crosslinking, yielding a three-dimensional network hydrophilic gel. They provide a stable moist environment, allowing cell migration and growth. Stable hyaluronic acid hydrogels, for example, can be formed by carbodiimide hydrochloride and adipic dihydrazide crosslinking.

* Suitable for chronic ulcers and burns.

2. Hyaluronic Acid Sponge Dressings

These are highly porous, absorbent dressings. Like a sponge, they are able to suck out excess exudate and prevent maceration. They provide physical support as well, which prevents overgrowth of granulation tissue. They are some of them are mixed with chitosan to enhance antibacterial activity.

* Suitable for highly exudative wounds and postoperative bleeding wounds.

3. Hyaluronic Acid Film Dressings

The most significant benefit of film dressings is their thinness and breathability. With a thickness as low as 0.01~0.1mm, they provide excellent breathability. They are also convenient to apply, sticking to the wound surface without needing secondary fixation.

* Suitable for minimally invasive facial surgeries.

4. Hyaluronic Acid Sprays

These are dressing items that trap sodium hyaluronate in liquid form in pressurized cans or pump bottles, which are applied directly to the skin or wound surface as a spray. Their key features include ease of use, immediate moisturization, and rapid film formation. Medical sprays can also be employed to deliver antibiotics or cytokines for selective drug delivery.

* Suitable for large-area burns and oral/nasal mucosal ulcers.

Other than these traditional dressings, with technology increasing, the market also launched 3D-printed custom dressings. These use a bio-ink composed of HA and fibroblasts to print active dressings with precise matching of the wound contour. They can replicate complicated wounds in a very accurate manner, for instance, nasal defects repair.

Stanford Chemicals Company (SCC) offers high-quality hyaluronic acid (HA) powder raw materials suitable for the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and research industries. Their HA powder is characterized by high purity, excellent solubility, and a variety of molecular weight options, ensuring outstanding performance across different applications. Whether you need it for moisturizing formulations, injectable fillers, eye drops, or medical dressings, SCC can meet your requirements. For more product information, contact professionals through the Get A Quote.

[1] Frenkel JS. The role of hyaluronan in wound healing. Int Wound J. 2014 Apr;11(2):159-63. doi: 10.1111/j.1742-481X.2012.01057.x. Epub 2012 Aug 14. PMID: 22891615; PMCID: PMC7950635.

[2] Polizzi, A.; Leanza, Y.; Belmonte, A.; Grippaudo, C.; Leonardi, R.; Isola, G. Impact of Hyaluronic Acid and Other Re-Epithelializing Agents in Periodontal Regeneration: A Molecular Perspective. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25, 12347. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252212347

[3] Mariana F.P. Graça, Sónia P. Miguel, Cátia S.D. Cabral, Ilídio J. Correia, Hyaluronic acid—Based wound dressings: A review, Carbohydrate Polymers, Volume 241, 2020, 116364, ISSN 0144-8617, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.carbpol.2020.116364.

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History of Hyaluronic Acid

In 1934, scientists Karl Meyer and John Palmer first isolated HA from the vitreous of cow eyes, discovering its unique moisturizing and lubricating properties. HA’s medical applications began over 70 years ago. Using time as a clue, we can clearly see the application history of hyaluronic acid.

• 1934 – HA was first isolated.
• 1930s-40s – HA was extracted from synovial fluid, skin, umbilical cords, tumors, and rooster combs.
• 1940s-50s – HA began to be used in medicine and eye surgeries, especially in cataract treatments.
• 1951 – The chemical structure of HA was determined.
• 1970s – Cartilage proteoglycans were found to interact specifically with HA.
• 1980s – HA was widely used to treat arthritis and introduced into cosmetics and skincare.
• 1993 – Hyaluronate synthase was discovered and cloned from Group A streptococcus.
• 1999 – The first purification of active HA synthase.
• Today – HA is mainly produced through bacterial fermentation, an efficient and eco-friendly method widely applied in pharmaceuticals, skincare, and biotechnology.

Medical Value of Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid has a wide range of applications in the medical field: cell proliferation and differentiation, regulation of inflammation, vascular generation, and treatment of tumor cancer.

Fig 1. Benefits of Medical-Grade HA

1. Promoting Cell Proliferation and Differentiation

HA is an important substance in cell proliferation and differentiation. As an essential component of the ECM, HA could create a proper microenvironment for cell regeneration to help in wound healing and repair of cartilage tissue. For example, HA enhances chondrocyte cell proliferation, which is very effective in cartilage regeneration and also in the functional recovery process.

2. Modulating Inflammation

HA is an important mediator in the regulation of inflammatory processes. It may modulate the activity of immune cells, thereby reducing excessive inflammation, which may prevent tissue damage. In this respect, intra-articular injections of HA may reduce pain and improve functional ability in certain clinical conditions such as osteoarthritis. It reduces inflammation during the healing of skin wounds and hence promotes tissue repair.

3. Enhancing Vascular Generation

HA contributes to the process of angiogenesis-or, new blood vessel formation-which is important in processes such as wound healing and tissue regeneration and some pathologies such as tumor growth. HA functions through interaction with its receptors to enhance migration and proliferation of endothelial cells and, thus, hastens vascular formation. This mechanism not only helps accelerate wound healing, but can also play a positive role in certain therapeutic areas, such as the treatment of ischemic diseases.

Read more: Top 10 Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid

4. Cancer Cells Inhibition

HA has been in focus in application to cancer treatment. In the case of low molecular weight HA, Exogenous LMW-HA may exert anti-tumor effects by directly triggering an immune response, decreasing the proliferation of tumor cells, or remodeling the tumor microenvironment. Though partially unclear, Exogenous LMW-HA has been proposed to interact with specific immune cells and interfere with tumor cell signaling. More recently, HA has been suggested for application in improving the diagnosis of cancer and as part of targeted drug delivery systems, offering higher specificity in cancer treatments.

Reference: Does Hyaluronic Acid Cause Cancer

Table 1. Overview of the medical value and application of hyaluronic acid

Biomedical Products Based on HA

Due to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, non-toxic, and non-immunogenic properties, several biomedical products have been developed based on HA:

• Injectables: Used for skin fillers, joint lubrication, and anti-aging treatments, such as facial fillers and joint injections.
• Oral Supplements: Often used to improve skin hydration, quality, and joint health.
• Drug Delivery Systems: HA serves as a carrier for slow drug release, improving absorption and bioavailability at specific sites.
• Ophthalmic Solutions: Such as artificial tears and corneal repair solutions, used to alleviate dry eyes and promote corneal healing.
• Wound Dressings: HA promotes wound healing and is used in treating burns, ulcers, and other injuries.
• Bone Tissue Engineering Materials: Used to promote bone and cartilage regeneration.
• Contact Lens Lubricants: Provides comfort and relieves dryness for contact lens wearers.

Fig 2. Biomedical Products Based on HA

Conclusion

As a biocompatible and biodegradable compound, HA holds immense potential as a bioactive molecule for various physiological and pathological conditions. Its applications span from skincare benefits to cancer treatment, inflammation regulation, and chronic disease management. With advancing technology, we can expect more efficient production processes and innovative therapeutic products in the future.

Stanford Chemicals Company (SCC) is a professional supplier of hyaluronic acid. SCC offers high-purity, high-quality, and safe sodium hyaluronate powder (including food-grade, cosmetic-grade, medical-grade, and injectable-grade). All of SCC’s hyaluronic acid products are made using the bacterial fermentation method, ensuring safety and reliability.

List of Medical-Grade Sodium Hyaluronate Powder：

• HA-EM2.0-SC
• HA-EM2.4-SC
• HA-EM3.0-SC

Reference:

Iaconisi, G.N.; Lunetti, P.; Gallo, N.; Cappello, A.R.; Fiermonte, G.; Dolce, V.; Capobianco, L. Hyaluronic Acid: A Powerful Biomolecule with Wide-Ranging Applications—A Comprehensive Review. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24, 10296. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241210296

The post Exploring the Medical Value of Hyaluronic Acid (HA) appeared first on Stanford Chemicals.

Wound healing is a complex biological process that involves a series of intricate cellular and molecular events aimed at restoring tissue integrity and function. In recent years, medical grade hyaluronic acid has emerged as a promising agent in promoting wound healing due to its unique properties and versatile applications.

This article explores the role of hyaluronic acid in wound healing, its mechanisms of action, and its potential benefits.

The Role of Hyaluronic Acid in Wound Healing

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan found in the extracellular matrix of tissues. It plays a critical role in tissue repair and regeneration. In wound healing, HA functions as a key component of the extracellular matrix. It promotes structural support, promotes cell migration, and modulates inflammatory responses.

Related reading: Medical-grade Sodium Hyaluronate Guide 2023: Functions & Applications

1. Promotion of Cell Migration: Medical Grade Hyaluronic Acid facilitates the migration of various cell types involved in wound healing, such as fibroblasts, keratinocytes, and immune cells. By creating a scaffold for cell adhesion and migration, it helps to populate the wound bed with essential cells for tissue repair.
2. Modulation of Inflammation: Medical Grade Hyaluronic Acid exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by interacting with immune cells and cytokines involved in the inflammatory phase of wound healing. By reducing inflammation and promoting a balanced immune response, it creates a favorable environment for healing.
3. Enhancement of Tissue Regeneration: Through its ability to retain water and maintain tissue hydration, HA supports the formation of granulation tissue, angiogenesis, and collagen synthesis, essential processes for wound closure and scar formation.

Benefits of Medical Grade Hyaluronic Acid in Wound Healing

1. Enhanced Wound Closure: Studies have shown that the application of hyaluronic acid to wounds can accelerate the closure of both acute and chronic wounds, such as surgical incisions, diabetic ulcers, and pressure sores.
2. Reduced Scarring: By promoting organized collagen deposition and modulating the inflammatory response, HA may help reduce scar formation and improve the aesthetic outcome of healed wounds.

Related reading: Hyaluronic Acid: A Solution for Scar Reduction

3. Moist Wound Healing: The hydrophilic nature of hyaluronic acid allows it to maintain a moist wound environment, which is conducive to cell migration, proliferation, and extracellular matrix deposition, leading to faster and more effective wound healing.

Clinical Evidence of Medical Grade Hyaluronic Acid

Medical Grade Hyaluronic Acid is available in various formulations, including gels, films, and dressings. They are designed for specific wound types and stages of healing. These products can be applied topically or in combination with other wound care modalities as well.

A review published in 2024 illustrated the effects of medical grade HA. This paper provides a review of HA use in wound healing, particularly focusing on challenging wounds to heal. It also explores HA’s applications in ophthalmology and otorhinolaryngology. Additionally, it demonstrates HA’s effectiveness as a versatile agent in medicine due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial properties. [1]

Such medical grade product is also combined with diverse substances in the process of wound healing. It was proved that the HA and iodine complex is effective in treating hard-to-heal wounds of various causes. [2] Clinical trials have also validated the efficacy of the medical grade hyaluronic acid and amino acids combination in treating various wounds. [3]

Future Directions

As research in wound healing continues to advance, the potential of medical grade hyaluronic acid in promoting tissue regeneration and improving wound outcomes remains a subject of ongoing investigation.

Further studies exploring novel delivery systems, combination therapies, and personalized approaches are likely to expand the therapeutic applications of hyaluronic acid in wound care. Here are some concise future directions:

• Advanced Delivery: Explore innovative delivery methods like hydrogels and nanoparticles.
• Combination Therapies: Combine HA with growth factors or stem cells for enhanced healing.
• Bioengineered Constructs: Develop scaffolds incorporating HA for tissue regeneration.
• Immunomodulation: Investigate HA’s immunomodulatory effects for improved healing.
• Personalized Medicine: Tailor HA treatments based on patient characteristics for better outcomes.
• Clinical Trials: Conduct more trials to validate HA’s efficacy and safety in wound care.
• Regenerative Medicine: Explore HA’s potential in regenerating tissues and organs.

Conclusion

In summary, medical grade hyaluronic acid holds great promise in wound healing. It offers multiple benefits in promoting tissue repair, reducing scarring, and enhancing overall wound closure. By harnessing the regenerative properties of hyaluronic acid, clinicians can optimize wound care strategies and improve outcomes for patients with a variety of acute and chronic wounds.

Stanford Chemicals Company (SCC) is a leading wholesale supplier of pure organic HA in the USA. With extensive expertise, we offer a wide range of hyaluronic acid grades, including medical, cosmetic, and food grades. Our products encompass high, middle, and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid powders. Welcome to our website for HA products catering to various industries such as food supplements, cosmetics, eye drops, and pharmaceuticals.

Reference:

[1] Gushiken, L.F.S.; Beserra, F.P.; Bastos, J.K.; Jackson, C.J.; Pellizzon, C.H. Cutaneous Wound Healing: An Update from Physiopathology to Current Therapies. Life 2021, 11, 665. https://doi.org/10.3390/life11070665

[2] Antoszewska, M.; Sokolewicz, E.M.; Barańska-Rybak, W. Wide Use of Hyaluronic Acid in the Process of Wound Healing—A Rapid Review. Sci. Pharm. 2024, 92, 23. https://doi.org/10.3390/scipharm92020023

[3] Pecová J, Rohlíková V, Šmoldasová M, Marek J. Clinical Efficacy of Hyaluronic Acid with Iodine in Hard-to-Heal Wounds. Pharmaceutics. 2023 Sep 1;15(9):2268. doi: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15092268.

[4] Özker E, Krakowiecki A, Cassino R, Pezzuto C, Chadwick P, Romanelli M. Unique combination of hyaluronic acid and amino acids in the management of patients with a wide range of moderate-to-severe chronic wounds: Evidence from international clinical practice. Int Wound J. 2024 Feb;21 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):9-24. doi: 10.1111/iwj.

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Hyaluronic acid (HA) has gained significant attention in the beauty industry for its remarkable hydrating and anti-aging properties. It has become a staple ingredient in skincare products, known for its ability to plump and moisturize the skin. However, the benefits of HA extend far beyond the realm of beauty. This versatile substance also plays a vital role in joint health and overall well-being. Let’s dive into the versatility of hyaluronic acid and discover its diverse applications.

Understanding Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is a type of carbohydrate molecule that is naturally produced by the body. It is found in various tissues and fluids, such as the skin, joints, and eyes. HA is known for its ability to retain moisture, which helps to keep tissues well-lubricated and moisturized. It has various applications in the medical, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries.

Chemical Structure of HA

Applications of Hyaluronic Acid

1.    The Beauty of Hyaluronic Acid

In the realm of beauty, hyaluronic acid has gained a reputation as a holy grail ingredient. Its unique ability to retain moisture makes it a powerful hydrator for the skin. HA molecules can hold up to 1,000 times their weight in water, helping to replenish and maintain optimal hydration levels. By attracting and locking in moisture, it plumps the skin, smooths out fine lines and wrinkles, and enhances overall radiance. Therefore, HA becomes a key ingredient in serums, moisturizers, and facial masks, providing a boost of hydration and promoting a youthful complexion.

2.    Dermal Fillers and Facial Contouring

Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers are another HA product in the field of cosmetics. They are used to restore lost volume, enhance facial contours, and diminish the appearance of wrinkles and folds. By injecting them beneath the skin’s surface, a skilled professional can sculpt and rejuvenate the face, providing natural-looking results. Dermal fillers offer a non-surgical solution for those seeking facial rejuvenation and enhancement. So, most individuals can resume their regular activities immediately after the treatment.

3.    Joint Health and Hyaluronic Acid

Beyond its beauty benefits, hyaluronic acid plays a critical role in maintaining healthy joints. It is naturally present in the synovial fluid that lubricates and cushions the joints. HA acts as a shock absorber, reducing friction and ensuring smooth movement. With age or certain medical conditions, its production in the joints may decrease, leading to joint stiffness, discomfort, and limited mobility. In these cases, HA injections can be administered directly into the affected joint to restore lubrication, reduce pain, and improve joint function. These injections have become a popular treatment option for individuals with conditions such as osteoarthritis.

4.    Eye Health and Lubrication

Medical-grade HA is also used in ophthalmology for its lubricating properties in the form of eye drops. These eye drops help alleviate symptoms of dry eyes by providing a protective and moisturizing layer on the surface of the eyes. The hyaluronic acid forms a barrier that prevents moisture loss, reduces friction, and soothes dryness, thereby improving overall eye comfort and health.

5.    Wound Healing and Tissue Repair

Hyaluronic acid’s versatile nature extends to the realm of wound healing and tissue repair. HA plays a crucial role in the body’s natural healing processes. It promotes cell migration, collagen synthesis, and angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels), which are essential for efficient wound healing. By providing a favorable environment for tissue regeneration, this natural substance supports the body’s ability to heal wounds, reduce scarring, and promote overall tissue repair.

Conclusion

Hyaluronic acid is undoubtedly a versatile and multi-faceted compound. Its hydrating and anti-aging properties make it a go-to ingredient in the beauty industry, helping individuals achieve plump and youthful skin. Moreover, this acid plays a vital role in joint health, wound healing, eye lubrication, and facial contouring. Its ability to provide hydration, lubrication, and tissue repair makes it a valuable asset in various medical and cosmetic applications. Whether you’re seeking a beauty boost or joint relief, hyaluronic acid proves to be an exceptional ally in promoting overall well-being.

Stanford Chemicals Company (SCC) offers quality hyaluronic acid powder for skin care and joint health applications. Both cosmetic-grade HA and medical-grade HA are available. You can check our website for more information. Hope that you can find the perfect HA products for your business or research.

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