Hyaluronic acid and Mesenchymal stem cells (HA/MSC)

This entry describes a complex therapeutic system involving Hyaluronic Acid (HA) and Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) rather than a single molecular target. Hyaluronic acid is a high-molecular-weight glycosaminoglycan found in the extracellular matrix that mediates cellular signaling through receptors such as CD44 and RHAMM (Receptor for Hyaluronan-Mediated Motility) [PMID: 32804913]. Mesenchymal stem cells are multipotent stromal cells capable of differentiating into various cell types and secreting immunomodulatory factors to promote tissue repair [PMID: 29351282]. In therapeutic contexts, HA often serves as a biomimetic scaffold or delivery vehicle that enhances the survival, homing, and regenerative potential of MSCs within the tissue microenvironment [PMID: 31141727]. This interaction is particularly relevant in orthopedics for cartilage repair and in wound healing, where the HA-MSC axis modulates inflammation and promotes extracellular matrix synthesis [PMID: 30631533]. Because this 'target' encompasses multiple receptors, a cell type, and a structural component, it is classified as a therapeutic modality or system rather than a discrete protein target.

Other names

HyaluronanHAMesenchymal stromal cellsMSCsMultipotent stromal cellsHyaluronic acid-CD44 axis

Hyaluronic acid binds to endogenous receptors such as CD44 and RHAMM to trigger intracellular signaling pathways (e.g., PI3K/Akt, MAPK) that promote cell survival and migration [PMID: 32804913]. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) interact with the HA-rich extracellular matrix to enhance their retention and paracrine activity, secreting anti-inflammatory cytokines and growth factors to modulate the local tissue environment [PMID: 31141727].