Sodium hyaluronate
[CAS# 9067-32-7]

Identification

• Classification: Biochemical >> Enzymes and coenzymes
• Name: Sodium hyaluronate
• Synonyms: Hyaluronic acid sodium salt; Chlamyhyaluronic acid sodium salt
• Molecular Formula: (C₁₄H₂₀NO₁₁Na)_n
• CAS Registry Number: 9067-32-7
• EC Number: 618-620-0

Properties

• Water solubility: SOLUBLE

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H302-H319
• Safety Statements: P264-P264+P265-P270-P280-P301+P317-P305+P351+P338-P330-P337+P317-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1	H317

Discovery and Applications

Sodium hyaluronate, also known as hyaluronic acid, was discovered in 1934 by Karl Meyer and John Palmer, who isolated it from bovine vitreous humor. They named it "hyaluronic acid" after the Greek word "hyalos," meaning glass, due to its transparent appearance. Later, it was found that hyaluronic acid is present in various connective tissues, skin, and synovial fluid. Its discovery marked a significant breakthrough in understanding the molecular composition of extracellular matrices and its role in maintaining tissue hydration and lubrication.

Sodium hyaluronate is widely used in ophthalmic surgery as a viscoelastic agent to maintain space in the anterior chamber of the eye during procedures such as cataract surgery and corneal transplantation. It also serves as a lubricating agent in intraocular lenses. Additionally, sodium hyaluronate is used in orthopedic surgery as a lubricant and shock absorber in treating osteoarthritis.

In dermatology, sodium hyaluronate is a key ingredient in many skincare products, including moisturizers, serums, and anti-aging creams. Its ability to retain moisture and plump up the skin makes it effective in reducing the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and dryness. It is also used in cosmetic procedures like dermal fillers to add volume and enhance facial contours.

Sodium hyaluronate promotes wound healing by providing a moist environment that accelerates the natural repair process. It helps to reduce inflammation, prevent infection, and improve tissue regeneration. Sodium hyaluronate-based dressings are used in the management of chronic wounds, burns, and surgical incisions.

Sodium hyaluronate injections are commonly used to treat joint disorders such as osteoarthritis. Injected directly into the affected joint, it acts as a lubricant and shock absorber, reducing pain and improving joint mobility. The viscoelastic properties of sodium hyaluronate help to cushion the joint and restore its natural function.

Sodium hyaluronate fillers are used in cosmetic procedures to augment lips, cheeks, and other facial features. These fillers provide immediate volume enhancement and contouring, with results lasting several months to a year. Unlike permanent fillers, hyaluronic acid fillers are reversible and generally well-tolerated by patients.

Sodium hyaluronate is utilized in dentistry for various applications, including soft tissue augmentation, periodontal treatments, and oral surgery. It helps to promote tissue regeneration, reduce inflammation, and improve wound healing following dental procedures.

Sodium hyaluronate is used as an excipient in pharmaceutical formulations for drug delivery. Its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and mucoadhesive properties make it suitable for topical, oral, and parenteral drug delivery systems.

References

2024. Injectable polyoxazoline grafted hyaluronic acid thermoresponsive hydrogels for biomedical applications. J. Mater. Chem. B, 12(11).
DOI: 10.1039/D3TB02108D

2018. “Turn on” room-temperature phosphorescent biosensors for detection of hyaluronic acid based on manganese-doped ZnS quantum dots. RSC Adv., 8(5).
DOI: 10.1039/C7RA11858A

2012. In vitro synthesis of bioactive hydroxyapatite using sodium hyaluronate as a template. J. Mater. Chem., 22(38).
DOI: 10.1039/C2JM33624C