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Hyaluronic acid (HA) has a well-established history in biomedical and pharmaceutical fields, recognized for its versatility and therapeutic potential. This naturally occurring, anti-inflammatory, and hydrating polymer belongs to the glycosaminoglycan family and exhibits diverse physicochemical, biological, chemical, and pharmaceutical properties, largely governed by its molecular weight. Initially valued for its hydrating properties, HA has been extensively studied for its role in managing inflammatory disorders, ranging from epidermal conditions to deeper mesodermal and endodermal organ-related diseases. The increasing demand and scientific advancements have led to its commercial production of HA through microbial fermentation, capitalizing on its universally conserved structure. The applications of HA have expanded significantly within the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, where it is utilized as a mono-therapeutic agent and an advanced drug delivery system. In drug delivery, HA enables “double-targeted” therapy by binding receptors (primary) while allowing modifications for biomarkers (secondary), enhancing therapeutic precision. Selecting the appropriate MW or a blend is crucial for drug delivery systems like microneedles and hydrogels. However, despite its advantages, HA also presents several challenges, such as uncontrolled viscosity, necessitating chemical modifications to optimize its stability, efficacy, and usability. Researchers continue to explore innovative modifications to maintain its bioactivity while enhancing its functional properties.
Garg et al. (Thu,) studied this question.