Hyaluronic acid

Also known as hyaluronan, hyaluronic acid (HA) is a major component of the extracellular matrix and is found throughout the body, especially in the skin (50% of HA), joints, and eyes. It's found in all vertebrates. Due to its unique water-retaining capability, HA helps keep the skin hydrated and joints lubricated. They also play an important role in development, cellular response to injury and inflammation, and cell migration. They range in size, reaching up to 20,000 kDa, with differential effects. The unique properties of HA make it an ideal material for pharmacological applications, particularly in skin, eye, and joint health.