What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is an acidic, highly viscous, strongly water-binding glycosaminoglycan (GAG) made up of 1,4-linked hyalobiuronic acid units (beta-glucuronido-N-acetylglucosamine). In the body, it occurs in the ground substance of connective tissue, in synovial fluid, the umbilical cord, the skin and the vitreous body of the eye. It is broken down by hyaluronidase, beta-glucuronidase and N-acetylglucosaminidase. Primarily, hyaluronic acid regulates cell permeability, prevents the penetration of infectious germs and is itself a lubricant.
More information about hyaluronic acid…
- Moisture retention: hyaluronic acid has an exceptional ability to bind large amounts of water. This property helps to maintain an optimal moisture balance in the wound. Adequate moisture plays a decisive role in the cell growth and cell migration required for effective wound healing.
- Promotion of cell migration and proliferation: hyaluronic acid interacts with specific receptors on the surface of cells and thereby promotes their movement to the wound site. In addition, it can stimulate cell growth, which contributes to faster healing.
- Anti-inflammatory action: hyaluronic acid has anti-inflammatory properties, as it can reduce the release of pro-inflammatory molecules. An excessive inflammatory response can slow wound healing, so the anti-inflammatory effect of hyaluronic acid can shorten healing time.
- Tissue regeneration and scar formation: hyaluronic acid promotes the production of collagen, a main component of the extracellular matrix. This supports the formation of new tissue in the wound and can help reduce the formation of excess scar tissue.
Because of these positive properties, hyaluronic acid is frequently used in wound treatment. There are various forms of hyaluronic acid products, such as gels, ointments or sprays, which can be applied directly to the wound to support healing. In some cases, injection of hyaluronic acid into the wound may also be considered to promote wound healing. However, it is important to note that the use of hyaluronic acid in wound treatment depends on various factors and should always be discussed with a doctor.
Sources:
- International Wound Journal: “Hyaluronic acid: A promising mediator for tissue regeneration, wound healing, and therapeutic applications” – https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1742-481X.2011.00870.x
- Advances in Wound Care: “Hyaluronic Acid in Tissue Repair and Regeneration” – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5582444/
- Wounds: “Role of hyaluronic acid in wound healing: assessment of clinical evidence” – https://www.woundsresearch.com/article/role-hyaluronic-acid-wound-healing-assessment-clinical-evidence
- Dermato-Endocrinology: “Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging” – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3583886/
