Term: Hyaluronic Acid

Category: Polymer

Definition: Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring, hydrophilic polysaccharide with high water-retention capacity. Hyaluronic acid is a linear non-sulfated glycosaminoglycan made up of many repetitions of the disaccharide units of D-glucuronic acid and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine. It is one of the primary components of the extracellular matrix found in connective tissues, synovial fluid, and skin. 

Source: Natural polymer (biopolymer).

Structure: Repeating disaccharide units of D-glucuronic acid and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine linked via β-1,3 and β-1,4 glycosidic bonds.

Uses:

• Due to its excellent biocompatibility, viscoelasticity, and biodegradability, HA is widely used in biomedical and pharmaceutical applications.
• It is also employed in surface coatings for medical devices to enhance lubrication, hydration, and biocompatibility.

Related Content and Resources: 

Hydrophilic Coating Polymers and Chemistries: Complete Guide