Anti-inflammatory effects of hyaluronan in arthritis therapy: Not just for viscosity

nti-inflammatory effects of hyaluronan in arthritis therapy: Not just for viscosity Review (4715) Total Article Views Authors: Kayo Masuko, Minako Murata, Kazuo Yudoh, Tomohiro Kato, et al. Published Date April 2009 Volume 2009:2 Pages 77 - 81 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2147/IJGM.S5495 Kayo Masuko1, Minako Murata2, Kazuo Yudoh2, Tomohiro Kato1, Hiroshi Nakamura3 1Department of Biochemistry; 2Institute of Medical Science, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, Japan; 3Department of Joint Disease and Rheumatism, Nippon Medical School, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan Abstract: Hyaluronic acid (HA) has been widely used for viscosupplementation of diseased or aged articular joints. However, recent investigations have revealed the active anti-inflammatory or chondroprotective effect of HA, suggesting its potential role in attenuation of joint damage. In particular, interactions between HA and other inflammatory mediators are attracting interest. This review summarizes several aspects of recent investigations of the anti-inflammatory effects of HA in arthritis.