Effect of Hyaluronic Acid on Phagocytosis of Opsonized Latex Particles

In an in vitro model system using isolated human granulocytes high molecular weight hyaluronic acid stimulated the initial rate of phagocytosis of complement-opsonized latex particles. This specific quality was dependent on the molecular size and occurred at low concentrations (1-10 mg/l) of hyaluronic acid. However, at high concentrations (> 100 mg/l) hyaluronic acid inhibited the initial rate of phagocytosis of both IgG- and complement-opsonized particles. The latter effect was shared with chrondoitin sulphate, heparan sulphate and heparin. The results suggest that hyaluronic acid may be instrumental in controlling inflammatory processes.