Hyaluronic acid plays an essential role in several medical specialities, not just aesthetics. A widely available and biocompatible polysaccharide, the demand for hyaluronic acid-based technologies continues to evolve, grow, and expand across many indications.

It is the mainstay dermal filler in aesthetic medicine for many soft tissue volume correction indications and is widely used by aesthetic clinicians across the globe. It ranks second to Botulinum toxin as the most consistently popular non-invasive procedure till date.

Additionally, hyaluronic acid has also been reported to have antioxidant benefits, as well as in augmenting the wound healing cascade and immunostimulatory activity. Evidence has also suggested that Hyaluronic acid binds to extracellular matrix molecules and cell surface receptors. It is proven to regulate cellular behaviours by controlling the tissue macro-and micro-environments. Hyaluronic acid is known to be able to bind to three classes of cell surface receptors: CD44-A membrane glycoprotein, the receptor for hyaluronan-mediated motility (RHAMM), and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1). In a study, it was demonstrated that all hyaluronanfragments were safe, biologically active, and can support cellular stimulation and activation in repairing the dermis.

Across broad medical specialities, hyaluronic acid is commonly used for joint diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. The hyaluronic acid occurring in the synovial fluid has a high molecular mass, and commercially available injections of hyaluronic acid usually contain a high molecular hyaluronic acid compound to induce apoptosis of chondrocytes, facilitating a direct analgesic effect. Existing evidence has shown that intra-articular injections are well-tolerated, with low risk of complications or side-effects. Besides, the injections notably reduce inflammation and stimulate native hyaluronic acid, which helps in hydrating the cartilage, additionally lowering discomfort.

Resource: Baker A. Recent developments in hyaluronic acid research. The PMFA Journal. 2020; 7(3). Accessed from: https://www.thepmfajournal.com/media/19188/pmfafm20-ha_x.pdf