title: Matrix engineering.
abstract: Matrix engineering is a technology that utilizes hyaluronan (HA, hyaluronic acid) based matrices to control, direct or augment tissue regenerative processes. Hyaluronan and the concept of matrix engineering have become established tools in ophthalmic and orthopaedic medicine. The clinical indications for HA are limited by the physical properties and short residence time of the natural HA molecule. To expand and improve upon its current medical applications, a family of HA derivatives was prepared by chemical modification and cross-linking. Relative to the non-modified HA molecule, the hylan family of polymers provides more versatile physical forms, improved mechanical properties and an extended residence time. Hylan can also be used as a surface coating to improve blood compatibility. The chemical, physical and biological properties of hylans will be reviewed, focusing on the specific therapeutic indications they enable.
authors.affiliation: Biomatrix Inc, Ridgefield, NJ 07657.
authors.forename: E A
authors.initials: EA
authors.lastname: Balazs
authors.forename: P A
authors.initials: PA
authors.lastname: Bland
authors.forename: J L
authors.initials: JL
authors.lastname: Denlinger
authors.forename: A I
authors.initials: AI
authors.lastname: Goldman
authors.forename: N E
authors.initials: NE
authors.lastname: Larsen
authors.forename: E A
authors.initials: EA
authors.lastname: Leshchiner
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Leshchiner
authors.forename: B
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Morales
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D004548:Elasticity; D004621:Embolization, Therapeutic; D005109:Extracellular Matrix; D005782:Gels; D006168:Guinea Pigs; D006801:Humans; D006820:Hyaluronic Acid / Q000031:analogs & derivatives / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D007596:Joints / Q000601:surgery*; D007865:Leeches / Q000502:physiology; D051379:Mice; D013508:Ophthalmologic Surgical Procedures; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D012995:Solubility; D012996:Solutions; D013582:Synovial Fluid; D015625:Tissue Expansion Devices; D014783:Viscosity; D014822:Vitreous Body / Q000601:surgery
chemical_list: D005782:Gels; D012996:Solutions; C049816:hylan; D006820:Hyaluronic Acid