Measurement of hyaluronic acid modification rate in a laboratory

You want to realise the measurement of the hyaluronic acid modification rate in laboratory

What is hyaluronic acid modification rate measurement?

Hyaluronic acid (HA) modification rate measurement refers to the quantification of chemical modifications made to the hyaluronic acid molecule to alter its physico-chemical properties, in order to make it more suitable for specific applications. These modifications are often introduced to improve HA’s stability, viscosity, viscoelasticity, biocompatibility or duration of action.

Why modify hyaluronic acid?

Natural hyaluronic acid, while having interesting properties such as hydration and biocompatibility, has certain limitations:

  • Rapid degradation in the body by enzymes (hyaluronidases).
  • Viscosity insufficient for certain applications.
  • Instability over time or under certain physiological conditions.

To overcome these limitations, hyaluronic acid’s functional groups (usually hydroxyl or carboxyl groups) can be chemically modified. These modifications can include cross-linking, grafting of side chains, or substitution by specific chemical groups.

The different types of hyaluronic acid modification

  • Cross-linking : formation of covalent bonds between hyaluronic acid chains, as with BDDE (1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether). The rate of modification here refers to the proportion of hydroxyl groups involved in the formation of cross-linked bridges.

  • Esterification or amidation : the hydroxyl or carboxyl groups of hyaluronic acid can be esterified or amidated, thereby modifying the hydrophilic or hydrophobic properties of the molecule. The degree of esterification is measured by quantifying the fraction of carboxyl or hydroxyl groups that have been substituted.

  • Substitution by functional molecules : in certain applications, specific chemical groups (such as alkyl chains or polyethylene glycols) can be grafted onto hyaluronic acid to improve its solubility or functionality. The rate of modification measures the proportion of functional groups modified by these substituents.

The FILAB laboratory can help you measure the modification rate of hyaluronic acid

Importance of determination of hyaluronic acid modification rate

Determining the rate of modification of hyaluronic acid is essential in a number of contexts:

  • Quality control: measuring the rate of modification ensures that the final product meets expected specifications in terms of chemical reactivity, solubility or viscosity.
  • Optimization of functional properties: by adjusting the rate of modification, it is possible to control the physical and biological properties of hyaluronic acid (such as duration of action or resistance to enzymatic degradation).
  • Customization for specific applications: hyaluronic acid-based products can be tailored according to their rate of modification for a variety of applications, from cosmetics to medical devices.

Why choose FILAB?

FILAB, a laboratory staffed by experts in cosmetic analysis and failure characterization, offers analytical services from the design to the manufacture and marketing of cosmetic products (make-up, creams, perfumes, etc.).

OUR TECHNIQUES FOR hyaluronic acid modification rate analysis

The positive aspects of FILAB

  • A highly qualified team

  • Responsiveness in responding to and processing requests

  • A complete analytical park of 2100m²

  • Tailor-made support

Thomas GAUTIER
Thomas GAUTIER Head of Materials Department
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