Hyaluronic acid: structure, metabolism and implication in cicatrisation

Hyaluronan (HA) is a key component of the extra-cellular matrix and is involved in several mechanisms of the wound healing process. It is highly hygroscopic and is involved in the visco-elasticity of the skin. The properties of this molecule depend on its molecular weight. Native high molecular weight HA has structural properties whereas HA degradation products (oligomers) stimulate endothelial cell proliferation and migration. HA oligomers modulate inflammatory processes and promote neo-angiogenesis during the different steps of wound healing. HA mediates its biological effects through binding interactions with specific cell-associated receptors (CD44 and RHAMM). The tridimensional structure of HA is variable and acts as a framework for cell adhesion and migration. Thanks to its different physico-chemical properties, hylaluronic acid is very useful in the biomedical field. (C) 2010 Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.