The Characteristics of Hyaluronic Acid (HA)

HA is a Glycosaminoglycan Polymer that is not covalently bound to core proteins. It is a linear, high-molecular-weight polysaccharide that is an important component of the extracellular matrix. A unique feature of HA is that it is synthesized de novo at the plasma membrane by the enzyme HA synthetase (UDP (uridine diphosphate)-glycoside precursor of HAS1-3). The repeating disaccharide unit consists of the sugars D-glucuronic acid and N-acetylglucosamine linked by a β-1,3 glycosidic bond. These disaccharide units are sequentially linked by β-1,4 glycosidic bonds. The polymer chains of hyaluronic acid are found in nature in several different lengths and be up to several times 10,000 in length. HA is involved in many biological processes. For example, aberrant expression leads to tumor growth adhesion, and in vivo validation occurs.

Fig.1 Control of HAS2 activity at the transcriptional and translational levels. (Heldin, et al., 2019)

HA-based Cell Surface Glycoengineering Service at CD BioGlyco

Since the biological functions of HA chains often depend on their molecular weight and degree of polymerization. Therefore, from an application point of view, it is desirable to accurately resolve the molecular structure, linkage, and modification effects of HA. CD BioGlyco is a professional company specializing in Cell Surface Glycoengineering Services with a complete set of procedures to accelerate the progress of our client's research. The services we provide are as follows:

• Modification service

We provide modification services through cell surface HA skeleton remodeling and non-reducing and reducing end modifications. Our research group further evaluates the mutual recognition role of modified HA and molecules such as proteins. Analysis by genomic regulation of gene expression or responses to cell exterior or cellular signals. In addition, we provide the stabilization and activity assessment services of post-translational modifications. In particular, the content of UDP-N-acetylhexosamine and the expression mechanism of hyaluronan synthase were studied.
At CD BioGlyco, we provide mouse and cellular activity experiments applied to the regulation and expression of HA. Revealing its biological function, by controlling the expression of hyaluronidase, etc., to observe the whole process.

• Structural analysis service

We offer electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis services to determine oligosaccharide sequences. Moreover, we provide nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR) applied for HA structural analysis. High purity is required for NMR samples.

• Isolation and purification service

We use a size-fractionation column of Bio-gel P-10 to isolate the target glycan chain. Uronic acid concentrations of fractions were determined by the carbazole-sulfuric acid method. Combining multiple biological platforms, we provide clients with comprehensive and efficient separation and purification services.

• Other service

We offer a combination of dialysis and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to quickly and accurately determine their molecular weights. Meanwhile, we have a fluorescent labeling method and a variety of labeling reagents are available for clients to choose from.

Fig.2 HA-based cell surface glycoengineering service. (CD BioGlyco)

Applications of HA-based Cell Surface Glycoengineering

• HA-based cell surface glycoengineering is often used in the treatment of dry eye diseases.
• Modified HA-based cell surface glycoengineering functions as a fence in protecting tissues from bacterial infection.
• HA-based cell surface glycoengineering is also thought to act as a shock absorber and a lubricant in the body and is involved in the transport of nutrients.
• HA-based cell surface glycoengineering is increasingly being used in biomedical applications, drug delivery, and tissue engineering.
• Modified HA-based cell surface glycoengineering modulates both the immune response and the mesenchymal cell phenotype, thus playing an important role in the treatment and drug development for cardiovascular diseases.

Combining the Glycoengineering Platform, CD BioGlyco provides Cell Surface Glycoengineering services with the support of experienced technicians. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us.