Hyaluronic acid: comprehensive review of a multifunctional biopolymer

Hyaluronic acid (HA) has a broad range of cosmetic and therapeutic applications due to its unique physicochemical properties and involvement in various essential biological processes, including cell signaling, wound reparation, and tissue regeneration.

In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of HA, including its history, physicochemical properties, roles, molecular biology, and biochemistry (including occurrence, biosynthesis, and degradation), as well as its chemical modifications and conventional and emerging production methods. We also examine HA's medical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic applications and its derivatives in arthrology, ophthalmology, wound healing, odontology, oncology, drug delivery, 3D bioprinting, and cosmetology. Finally, we discuss the potential role of HA in preventing Covid-19.

Hyaluronic acid, a naturally found substance, has shown immense potential in the clinic. Thus, it is imperative to highlight its applications in the diverse fields impacting the lives of patients and healthy individuals.