Hyaluronic

Hyaluronic Acid Overview

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a high-molecular-weight nonsulfated glycosaminoglycan that serves as a primary structural component of the extracellular matrix (ECM) throughout vertebrate tissues. It is most concentrated in the skin, synovial fluid of the joints, and the vitreous humor of the eye. Within laboratory research settings, HA is investigated for its unique ability to retain moisture, with the capacity to bind up to 1,000 times its weight in water. This characteristic makes it a focal point for studies involving tissue turgor, cellular hydration, and biomechanical cushioning.

Scientific inquiry into Hyaluronic Acid extends beyond simple hydration. Researchers examine its role in cellular signaling, specifically its interaction with cell-surface receptors like CD44 and RHAMM. These interactions are believed to modulate various physiological processes, including epithelial cell migration, fibroblast proliferation, and the regulation of inflammatory cytokines. In experimental models of wound healing, HA is analyzed for its ability to create a hydrated, porous environment that facilitates the diffusion of nutrients and the movement of regenerative cells.

Furthermore, the viscoelastic properties of Hyaluronic Acid are central to biomechanical research. Its presence in synovial fluid provides lubrication and shock absorption, protecting cartilaginous surfaces from mechanical wear. Researchers utilize HA to study the maintenance of joint homeostasis and the potential for mitigating oxidative stress within connective tissues.

Hyaluronic Acid Structure

Chemical Composition

Hyaluronic Acid is a linear polymer consisting of repeating disaccharide units. Each unit is composed of D-glucuronic acid and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine, linked via alternating glycosidic bonds.

Product Specifications Table

Property

Specification

Molecular Name

Hyaluronic Acid (Hyaluronan)

Sequence Formula

(C14H21NO11)n

Structure Solution Formula

[beta-1,4-GlcUA-beta-1,3-GlcNAc]n

Physical State

Lyophilized White Powder

Purity

99% or Higher

Solubility

Soluble in Water or Physiological Saline

Storage Temperature

4 degrees Celsius (Short term) / -20 to -80 degrees Celsius (Long term)

Hyaluronic Acid Research

Tissue Hydration and Biomechanics

Research examines how HA maintains the structural integrity of the dermal layers. By forming a dense, water-rich network, it provides the necessary turgor to support the skin's physical barrier functions and elasticity in laboratory models.

Joint Health and Lubrication

In musculoskeletal studies, HA is evaluated for its contribution to the rheological properties of joint fluid. It acts as both a lubricant and a shock absorber, helping to distribute mechanical loads across joint surfaces during simulated movement.

Wound Healing and Repair Mechanisms

Investigations into HA's role in tissue repair focus on its ability to organize the extracellular matrix. Research suggests that HA promotes the early stages of healing by facilitating cell migration and modulating the inflammatory environment.

Receptor-Mediated Signaling

The interaction between HA and the CD44 receptor is a major area of study. This pathway is researched for its influence on cell survival, growth, and the remodeling of connective tissues in response to injury.

Antioxidant and Protective Effects

Studies explore the potential of HA to neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS). This research is critical in understanding how HA might protect cells from oxidative damage during periods of metabolic stress or mechanical friction.

Disclaimer: This material is intended for laboratory research purposes only and is not for human or veterinary consumption.

Article Author

This comprehensive review was organized and edited by Dr. Michael K. Cowman, Ph.D. As a distinguished expert in biochemistry and glycobiology, Dr. Cowman has dedicated his career to the study of hyaluronan. His research has been instrumental in characterizing the physical chemistry of HA and its various biological functions within the extracellular matrix.

Scientific Journal Author

The foundational research cited in this document includes the work of Dr. Michael K. Cowman and colleagues such as H.G. Lee and K.L. Schwertfeger. Their contributions, alongside the pioneering work of J.R.E. Fraser and the Laurent group, provide the scientific basis for our understanding of HA distribution and turnover. Montreal Peptides Canada is an independent supplier and maintains no formal affiliation or endorsement with these researchers.

Reference Citations

1. Fraser JR, Laurent TC, Laurent UB. Hyaluronan: its nature, distribution, functions and turnover. J Intern Med. 1997;242(1):27-33. PMID: 9260563.
2. Cowman MK, Lee HG, Schwertfeger KL, et al. The functional roles of hyaluronan in health and disease. Carbohydr Res. 2015;404:1-19. PMID: 25620201.
3. Litwiniuk M, et al. Hyaluronic acid in wound healing. Wounds. 2016;28(3):78-88. PMID: 26978867.
4. Altman RD, et al. Hyaluronic acid in osteoarthritis research. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2015;23(11):2103-2111. PMID: 26412638.
5. Necas J, et al. Hyaluronic acid in tissue hydration and healing. Vet Med. 2008;53(8):397-411.
6. Salwowska NM, et al. Biological properties of hyaluronic acid. Dermatol Rev. 2016;103(1):1-12. PMID: 27378383.
7. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04619611. Hyaluronic acid in connective tissue modeling studies.
8. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05191339. Experimental HA evaluation in dermal biomechanical research.

Storage

Lyophilized State Preservation

This product is supplied in a lyophilized (freeze-dried) state. Lyophilization is a process where the peptide is frozen and the surrounding pressure is reduced to allow the frozen water to sublimate directly from the solid phase to the gas phase. This creates a stable, porous structure that is resistant to degradation.

Reconstitution and Stability

Once reconstituted with bacteriostatic water or a sterile buffer, the solution becomes more susceptible to temperature fluctuations and microbial growth. It is recommended to use the solution within 30 days while maintaining strict refrigeration at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius.

Long-Term Archiving

For storage exceeding three months, the lyophilized powder should be kept in a freezer at -20 degrees Celsius or -80 degrees Celsius. This minimizes the kinetic energy within the molecules, preventing the gradual breakdown of the glycosidic bonds.

Environmental Protection

• Light: Peptides should be kept in amber vials or dark environments to prevent photo-degradation.
• Moisture: Always allow vials to reach room temperature before opening to prevent condensation from forming inside the container.
• Oxygen: If possible, store large quantities under an inert gas like nitrogen to prevent oxidative damage to the molecular chain.