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Hyaluronic acid--a versatile biopolymer.
S W Tan1, M R Johns, P F Greenfield
1Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Queensland.
Australian Journal of Biotechnology
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Hyaluronic acid is a valuable biopolymer with diverse applications. Research improved its production economics by controlling fermentation conditions, enhancing its therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Biopolymer Science
- Biotechnology
- Biochemical Engineering
Background:
- Hyaluronic acid (HA), derived from bovine synovial fluid, has broad applications in ophthalmology, veterinary medicine, cosmetics, drug delivery, orthopedics, cardiovascular health, and wound healing.
- Despite its current uses, the full therapeutic potential of hyaluronic acid remains largely untapped.
- Advancements include crosslinking HA for improved product performance and ongoing research into its biosynthesis and commercial production.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the properties, biosynthesis, and commercial production of hyaluronic acid.
- To estimate the current and future global demand for hyaluronic acid.
- To investigate methods for improving the economics of hyaluronic acid production through laboratory experiments.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on hyaluronic acid properties, biosynthesis, and production.
- Estimation of current and future world demand for hyaluronic acid.
- Laboratory experiments focused on optimizing hyaluronic acid production by Streptococcus zooepidemicus, involving control of glucose, yeast extract, and fermentation pH.
Main Results:
- Hyaluronic acid production by Streptococcus zooepidemicus was found to be significantly lower at pH 6.5 compared to pH 7.1.
- A novel method was developed to extend hyaluronic acid production into the stationary phase of bacterial growth.
- Optimized fermentation conditions, including glucose and yeast extract concentrations and pH, contribute to improved production economics.
Conclusions:
- Hyaluronic acid is a highly valuable therapeutic biopolymer with expanding applications.
- Optimizing fermentation parameters, such as pH control and extending production into the stationary phase, can enhance the economic viability of hyaluronic acid production.
- Further research into production economics and novel product development will unlock the full therapeutic potential of hyaluronic acid.