The Essential Role of Hyaluronic Acid

The hyaluronic acid is a substance that, although relatively new in public life, already plays a fundamental role in various fields of medicine. Known as a natural carbohydrate, hyaluronic acid is not only suitable for treating joint pain but is also popular in dermatological, gynecological, and otorhinolaryngological applications. The significance of this substance is continuously increasing as research reveals its beneficial effects in more and more areas.

Hyaluronic acid is found in the tissues of the body and is capable of binding water, thereby contributing to the hydration and elasticity of the tissues. The production of hyaluronic acid can occur from various sources, including plant and bacterial methods. Due to these properties, hyaluronic acid is an essential component of numerous medical and cosmetic products, thus playing an important role in maintaining human health.

The characteristics and role of hyaluronic acid in the body

Hyaluronic acid is a natural, high-molecular-weight carbohydrate that is present in almost every tissue of the human body. It is found in particularly high concentrations in the skin, joints, and vitreous body of the eye. The primary function of hyaluronic acid is water retention, which contributes to skin hydration and tissue elasticity. A deficiency of hyaluronic acid can lead to numerous health issues, such as joint pain, skin problems, or even inflammatory processes.

The unique viscosity and elasticity of hyaluronic acid allow it to be used in various medical and cosmetic products. For example, in dermatology, it is often used to promote wound healing, as it helps retain moisture and regenerate tissues. Additionally, hyaluronic acid can be administered in injection form to relieve joint pain, especially among athletes and older individuals.

The distribution of hyaluronic acid in the body is not uniform: approximately 56% is found in the skin, while 35% is in muscles and bones, and 9% is in other tissues, such as synovial fluid or the umbilical cord. This distribution also reflects how important the substance is for various tissue functions.

Applications of hyaluronic acid

Thanks to its wide range of uses, hyaluronic acid is prevalent in numerous medical fields. In rheumatology and orthopedics, hyaluronic acid is often used as a “lubricant” to reduce joint pain. The goal of injection treatments is to improve mobility, reduce inflammation, and prevent cartilage wear. Furthermore, hyaluronic acid can assist in the rehabilitation of injuries sustained by athletes.

In gynecology, the application of hyaluronic acid aims to restore the mucosa of the bladder wall. The procedure helps reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, thereby improving the quality of life. In dermatology, hyaluronic acid is used for wound healing as well as for aesthetic treatments, such as wrinkle reduction procedures.

Hyaluronic acid is also included in otorhinolaryngological applications, where it can help treat various mucosal inflammations. Hyaluronic acid aids in keeping mucous membranes moist, which is important for the health of the respiratory tract. Additionally, eye drops containing hyaluronic acid are available to help alleviate dry eyes and other unpleasant symptoms.

How was hyaluronic acid discovered?

The discovery of hyaluronic acid dates back to the late 1930s when Karl Meyer and his team were working at Columbia University on the treatment of rheumatic patients. During their work, they succeeded in isolating an active substance that they named hyaluronic acid. The name of the substance refers to its acidic nature.

A Hungarian scientist, Dr. Endre Balázs, is responsible for the widespread use of hyaluronic acid, having patented its use in the baking industry during World War II. His discoveries brought significant advancements in hyaluronic acid research, and in the following decades, the isolation of the substance from various animal species also took place. The first product containing hyaluronic acid became available in the 1980s, and since then, the popularity of hyaluronic acid derivatives has been continuously increasing.

Today, hyaluronic acid is used in various medical and cosmetic applications, and research continues to explore its further beneficial effects. The role of this substance in modern medicine is becoming increasingly important, and the application of hyaluronic acid is likely to expand in the future.