1.Discovery of
HA:In 1934, Karl Meyer isolated
a formerly unknown glycosaminoglycan from
the vitreous humor of the bovine eye. It
differed from any of the other previously
discovered glycosamlnoglycans in that it
did not contain sulffur. With its distinctive
structure, its function within the body
was unique. It was named hyaluronan and
further scientific study ensued. At the
time of its discovery, the new compound
took on two names: hyaluronan when referring
to its endogenous synthesis and hyaluronic
acid when discussing research conducted
outside of the body-huma or animal. Today
hyaluronan is comonly referred to as hyaluronic
acid, regardless of the context in which
it is spoken.
2.Structure of HA:Hyaluronic
Acid is linear, unbranched, high molecular
weight polysaccharides containing a repeating
disaccharide unit (D-glucuronic acid and
N-acetyl glucosamine). HA, in its natural
state, weighs about from 0.5-3.0 million
daltons. Its weight lends itself to high
viscosity and excellent lubrication within
the body. The other glycosaminoglcans in
the body include chondroitin sulfate, keratan
sulfate, dermatan sulfate, and heparin sulfate.
3. Distribution of HA:HA
widely consists in the extracelluar spaces
of animal tissue. Almost kinds of animal
tissue contain the different quantity of
HA. Today Hyaluronic Acid has been found
from skin, cockcomb, brain, vitreum, connective
tissue, umbilical cord, human serum, articular
fluid, gristle, human urine, cock embryo,
oocyte, artery and vein etc.
Structural
Formula:
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