This chapter comprehensively examines hyaluronic acid (HA), an intrinsic biopolymer in the human extracellular matrix. It traces HA’s evolution from discovery to commercial applications, beginning with a historical overview, emphasizing its structural complexity and physiological significance in connective tissues. The narrative delves into the intricate interplay between HA and the cell-surface receptor CD44, detailing their involvement in diverse biological processes, including inflammation and cancer progression. HA synthases and hyaluronidases’ regulatory roles in orchestrating extracellular matrix interactions, particularly in cancer contexts, are highlighted. Besides, the exploration of HA’s therapeutic potential, specifically in drug delivery systems, is also illuminated. Various methodologies, such as HA-conjugated and encapsulated drugs, are examined, showcasing HA’s capacity to enhance the biocompatibility and solubility of anticancer medications. The versatility of HA is underscored as a crucial element in multifunctional nanoparticles (NPs), leveraging its targeting capabilities for cancer treatment. Tumors with elevated HA concentrations are associated with malignancy, prompting the exploration of strategies involving hyaluronidases, HA oligosaccharides (oHA), and HA-based medications to address these challenges. The chapter elucidates the complex interplay between HA, CD44, and cancer progression. Different HA variants, including high molecular weight HA (HMW-HA) and small oligo-HA, are explored, elucidating their diverse impacts on cancer cell behavior. Small oligo-hyaluronic acids (oHA) emerge as promising tumor inhibitors, contrasting larger HA molecules. The role of low molecular weight HA (LMW-HA) is detailed as a dynamic regulator influencing cancer cell processes through matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). This chapter lays the foundation for understanding HA’s multifaceted role in cancer treatment, offering insights into potential therapeutic targets. The intricate relationships between HA, CD44, and cancer progression open avenues for future research and innovative therapeutic options. The integration of HA in cancer treatment strategies underscores its potential as a versatile and promising element for effective cancer therapies.

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Versatile Component of Extracellular Matrix: Hyaluronan with Dual Application in Understanding Cancer Progression Initiation and Cancer Inhibition

  • Gul-e-Saba Chaudhry,
  • Zeenia,
  • Sara Masood,
  • Muhammad Naveed Zafar,
  • Naila Safdar

摘要

This chapter comprehensively examines hyaluronic acid (HA), an intrinsic biopolymer in the human extracellular matrix. It traces HA’s evolution from discovery to commercial applications, beginning with a historical overview, emphasizing its structural complexity and physiological significance in connective tissues. The narrative delves into the intricate interplay between HA and the cell-surface receptor CD44, detailing their involvement in diverse biological processes, including inflammation and cancer progression. HA synthases and hyaluronidases’ regulatory roles in orchestrating extracellular matrix interactions, particularly in cancer contexts, are highlighted. Besides, the exploration of HA’s therapeutic potential, specifically in drug delivery systems, is also illuminated. Various methodologies, such as HA-conjugated and encapsulated drugs, are examined, showcasing HA’s capacity to enhance the biocompatibility and solubility of anticancer medications. The versatility of HA is underscored as a crucial element in multifunctional nanoparticles (NPs), leveraging its targeting capabilities for cancer treatment. Tumors with elevated HA concentrations are associated with malignancy, prompting the exploration of strategies involving hyaluronidases, HA oligosaccharides (oHA), and HA-based medications to address these challenges. The chapter elucidates the complex interplay between HA, CD44, and cancer progression. Different HA variants, including high molecular weight HA (HMW-HA) and small oligo-HA, are explored, elucidating their diverse impacts on cancer cell behavior. Small oligo-hyaluronic acids (oHA) emerge as promising tumor inhibitors, contrasting larger HA molecules. The role of low molecular weight HA (LMW-HA) is detailed as a dynamic regulator influencing cancer cell processes through matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). This chapter lays the foundation for understanding HA’s multifaceted role in cancer treatment, offering insights into potential therapeutic targets. The intricate relationships between HA, CD44, and cancer progression open avenues for future research and innovative therapeutic options. The integration of HA in cancer treatment strategies underscores its potential as a versatile and promising element for effective cancer therapies.