Functionalized Hyaluronic Acid Polymers for Skin Penetration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hyaluronic acid (HA) molecules, used in skincare and medical applications, have limited penetration into the skin due to their large molecular weight, and their natural degradation rate limits treatment effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
Development of functionalized hyaluronic acid derivatives with modified hydroxyl groups and crosslinking agents to create polymers with slower degradation rates, allowing for deeper skin penetration and prolonged action.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If larger molecular weight HA molecules are used, then hydration capability is improved, but skin penetration is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the HA molecule by attaching smaller HA chains to a core structure, creating a branched architecture where the overall molecular weight is reduced while maintaining hydration groups. This allows the polymer to penetrate skin barriers more effectively while still providing hydration through the distributed HA units along the backbone.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates composite polymer structures combining HA units with other biocompatible polymer backbones. This composite approach allows the material to exhibit properties of both components: the skin penetration capability of smaller molecules and the hydration properties of HA, resolving the contradiction between size and hydration function.
2Reliability
If natural HA is used, then biocompatibility is improved, but degradation rate is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the chemical parameters of HA by introducing crosslinkable functional groups and attaching to biocompatible polymer backbones. These parameter changes reduce the degradation rate while maintaining biocompatibility, as the modified structures are still recognized as biocompatible but resist enzymatic breakdown more effectively than native HA.
Solution Approach 2:
By creating composite structures with biocompatible polymer backbones and crosslinking agents, the patent extends the duration of action while preserving biocompatibility. The crosslinked network structure provides stability against degradation, and the use of biocompatible materials ensures the extended duration does not compromise safety.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The functionalized hyaluronic acid polymers exhibit slower degradation rates and improved penetration, enhancing their effectiveness in skincare and medical treatments by providing sustained hydration and structural support.
Implementation Method 1
comprising crosslinked functionalized hyaluronic acid
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are compositions and methods of making and using such compositions. Polyhydric polymers may be converted to derivatives thereof by reaction with divinyl sulfone to provide vinyl sulfone substituted polymers, where the polymers may additionally be crosslinked, and the crosslinked and non-crosslinked derivatives may be used in biomedical and other applications.