Director of Science, Howard Thomas, has recently published the following article
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) - NATURES HIDDEN SECRET
Hyaluronic acid (HA) variously called “Nature’s Moisturiser” or “Fountain of Youth” is found throughout the body as it forms part of the structural tissue that holds tissues together. HA is a fundamental component of the extracellular matrix, which occupies the areas between cells. Almost half (7.5 grams) of HA in the body is located in the collagen of skin, acting as a moisture retaining gel. It is also found in most tissues in the body including the heart, eyes (vitreous humour), joints (synovial fluid), tendons and ligaments. Scientific studies have shown that HA improves skin and tissue hydration; works as a free radical scavenger; and stimulates the production of collagen in the skin. HA also keeps skin elastic and protects joints from repeated stresses. HA itself has a short lifespan and the body must produce it each day to maintain the levels necessary for the repair and regeneration of tissues lost through wear and tear.
HA is continuously synthesised in the body by a class of membrane enzymes called hyaluronan synthases which lengthen HA by repeatedly adding glucuronic acid and N-acetylglucosamine to the nascent polysaccharide molecule. In the reverse process, HA is broken down by enzymes called hyaluronidases into oligosaccharides and very low molecular weight HA which exhibit pro-angiogenic properties (forming new blood vessels), which is important in the tissue healing process.
HA is a common ingredient in many skin care products especially those that claim to make the skin look younger and banish wrinkles. In 2003 the FDA approved the use of HA injections for filling soft tissue defects such as facial wrinkles. These injections, which have become very popular, temporarily smooth wrinkles by adding volume under the skin. These effects may typically last 4-6 months.
As we age the production of HA in the body decreases. Fibroblasts, which produce collagen, elastin and fibronectin to provide strength, structure and elasticity to the skin, slowdown and become less active and produce less HA. As HA levels become depleted, collagen fibres bind together into more rigid fibres known as Collagen Type-1 leading to older facial looks. Increasing the HA levels by supplementation can promote Collagen Type -111 which gives a more youthful facial look.
The unique viscous nature of HA and the fact that it does not stimulate immune or allergic responses and is extremely well tolerated in the body has led to its use in a number of clinical applications including the treatment of osteoarthritis and associated joint problems (Puhl W et al Ann.Rheum Dis 56(7);637-40); as a surgical aid in eye surgery (Miller D et al “A comprehensive guide to its use in Ophthalmic Surgery”. J Wiley NY 1983); as an essential stimulator of the healing process and tissue regeneration in burns and surgical wounds (J Chem/G Abatangelo,Wound Repair and Regeneration,1999,7:79-89); treatment of Gingivitis/Periodontitis (R Moseley et al Dental Update 2002 vol 29 no 3); Apthous(mouth) ulcers (Nolan A et al Oral Pathol Med 2006;35:461-5); Lichen Planus, Venous Ulcers, etc.
Our joints are surrounded by a membrane called the synovial membrane which forms a protective capsule around the ends of the bones. This membrane secretes synovial fluid which serves as a lubricant, shock absorber and nutrient carrier. Cartilage is immersed in the synovial fluid and is avascular, meaning it contains no blood vessels. All the nutrients needed by the cartilage are provided by the synovial fluid. Hyaline cartilage is the most predominant form of cartilage and it lends strength and flexibility to the body. A key component of cartilage is HA. The synovial fluid in the joint capsule has important functions: It protects the cartilage covering the bones from excessive wear and tear by keeping them slightly apart.
Its viscoelasticity protects the cartilage against shock. It lubricates the joints and prevents bones rubbing against each other It provides water and nutrients to cartilage and eliminates waste products As we age and produce less HA so the viscoelasticity of the synovial fluid is markedly reduced thereby decreasing its lubricating and shock absorbing functions. This increases mechanical loading of the joint and cartilage destruction, which ultimately results in pain and restricted mobility of the affected joints.
Glucosamine has been widely used as a supplement for joint problems with good results. In vitro studies using cells in culture show glucosamine functions by stimulating HA production in the synovial fluid and by fibroblasts. So taking HA as a supplement gives faster and more reliable results
HA has been given by intra articular injections for osteoarthritis for many years with good success but the injections can be painful, have to be repeated, and are costly.
HA supplements in tablet or capsule form have been available for sometime but the quality of the HA varies enormously. Some tablets have low grade HA and poor absorption in the gut and most gelatine capsules have gelatine of animal origin which, since CJD, consumers want to avoid.
A major breakthrough has been the development of a liquid formulation of HA which is rapidly absorbed in the gut and appears in the joints in less than sixty minutes and it remains in the joints for at least five hours reducing pain and improving joint lubrication and mobility. (J. Agric. Food Chem.2008, 56, 10582-10593)
This proven, effective, oral, liquid version of HA is known as Novisyn®
Howard Thomas has been involved with a number of successful start-up companies. His past appointments have included the Board of Management of the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry; Chairman of the Committee of European Pharmaceutical Companies; member of the Development Board for Nottingham University; and he has been elected a Fellow of the Institute of Health in the UK.