Introduction

Sodium Hyaluronate also called hyaluronan, is an anionic, nonsulfated glycosaminoglycan distributed widely throughout connective, epithelial, and neural tissues. It is unique among glycosaminoglycans in that it is nonsulfated, forms in the plasma membrane instead of the Golgi apparatus, and can be very large, with its molecular weight often reaching the millions. One of the chief components of the extracellular matrix, hyaluronan contributes significantly to cell proliferation and migration, and may also be involved in the progression of some malignant tumors.The average 70 kg (154 lb) person has roughly 15 grams of hyaluronan in the body, one-third of which is turned over (degraded and synthesized) every day. Hyaluronic acid is also a component of the group A streptococcal extracellular capsule, and is believed to play a role in virulence.

Functions and Applications

1. Sodium Hyaluronate could be used in eye surgery, such as corneal transplantation, cataract surgery, glaucoma surgery, and surgery to repair retinal detachment    

2. Sodium Hyaluronate can also be used to treat osteoarthritis of the knee. They are administered as a course of injections into the knee joint, which are believed to supplement the viscosity of the joint fluid, thereby lubricating the joint, cushioning the joint, and producing an analgesic effect.

3. Hyaluronic Acid has also been used in the synthesis of biological scaffolds for woundhealing applications. These scaffolds typically have proteins such as fibronectin attached to the Hyaluronic Acid to facilitate cell migration into the wound.    

4. Hyaluronic Acid is also used in antiadhesive products, which are widely used in pelvic and abdominal surgery to prevent postoperative adhesions.