Hyaluronic Acid Applications in Wound Healing
Summary
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan abundant in skin and connective tissues, where it contributes to hydration, viscoelasticity and matrix organisation. In the context of wound repair, its unique physicochemical properties support each phase of healing: haemostasis, inflammation, proliferation and remodelling. In early stages, hyaluronic acid forms a provisional matrix that regulates fluid balance and provides a scaffold for cell infiltration. Its interaction with cell-surface receptors modulates inflammatory mediators, favouring a balanced immune response and reducing the risk of chronic inflammation. As repair progresses, hyaluronic acid of differing molecular weights influences fibroblast proliferation, collagen deposition and angiogenesis, thereby accelerating re-epithelialisation and restoring tissue integrity. Chemical modification and formulation into hydrogels, nanoparticles or composite scaffolds have extended its functionality, allowing for controlled release of bioactive agents, enhanced mechanical strength and antimicrobial activity. These advanced biomaterials demonstrate improved outcomes in acute and chronic wounds, including diabetic ulcers and burns, by promoting vascularisation, reducing scarring and minimising infection. Translational studies and clinical applications underscore the global significance of hyaluronic acid–based dressings and therapies, which offer biocompatible, cost-effective and scalable solutions for diverse healthcare settings.
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Hyaluronic Acid Applications in Wound Healing publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in hyaluronic acid applications in wound healing across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Glycosaminoglycan: A long, unbranched polysaccharide chain that contributes to the structural and signalling functions of the extracellular matrix.
Extracellular matrix: The complex network of proteins and polysaccharides surrounding cells, providing structural support and regulatory cues for tissue repair.
Re-epithelialisation: The process by which keratinocytes migrate over a wound bed to reform the epidermal barrier.
Angiogenesis: The growth of new blood vessels from existing vasculature, critical for supplying oxygen and nutrients during healing.
Molecular weight: A measure of polymer chain length, which influences hyaluronic acid’s viscosity, degradation rate and bioactivity in wound environments.
References
- Glycosaminoglycans’ Ability to Promote Wound Healing: From Native Living Macromolecules to Artificial Biomaterials. Advanced Science (2023).
- Marine Biomaterials: Hyaluronan. Marine Drugs (2023).
- Advances in Hyaluronic Acid for Biomedical Applications. Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology (2022).
- The use of hyaluronic acid based dressings to treat burns: A review. Burns & Trauma (2014).
- Wound Healing Promotion by Hyaluronic Acid: Effect of Molecular Weight on Gene Expression and In Vivo Wound Closure. Pharmaceuticals (2021).
- Hyaluronic Acid-Based Wound Dressing with Antimicrobial Properties for Wound Healing Application. Applied Sciences (2022).
- Hyaluronic Acid-Based Scaffolds as Potential Bioactive Wound Dressings. Polymers (2021).
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