Hyaluronan synthase 3 (HAS3)

Hyaluronan synthase 3 is an enzyme encoded by the human HAS3 gene and is a member of the hyaluronan synthase family. It catalyzes the synthesis of hyaluronan (hyaluronic acid), an essential unbranched glycosaminoglycan that is a major constituent of the extracellular matrix[1][2][7][9][10]. HAS3 is an integral membrane enzyme belonging to the glycosyltransferase (CAZy GT2) family, operating at the plasma membrane to elongate and translocate the growing hyaluronan chain. Compared to the HAS1 and HAS2 isoforms, HAS3 typically produces shorter hyaluronan polymers (approximately 100–1000 kDa)[3], which can have distinct biological effects, particularly in inflammation and cancer, where HAS3-derived hyaluronan is associated with tumor progression and altered tissue repair[2][3]. Multiple transcript variants and protein isoforms exist. While HAS3 is not currently a target of any approved drugs, it is under investigation as a potential therapeutic target and biomarker, particularly in cancer and fibrotic diseases.

Other names

HAS3hyaluronic acid synthase 3

Inhibition of HAS3 reduces hyaluronan synthesis, impacting extracellular matrix composition, cell proliferation, and migration (therapeutic intent in cancer and fibrosis is to limit tumor/stromal hyaluronan accumulation) Modulators may alter inflammatory or proliferative signaling through changes in hyaluronan polymer size and abundance