Nano Particulate Hydrogel (NPG) Technology
Hyaluronic acid (HA) has been identified as the molecule responsible for imbuing the knee with this rheostatic properties. HA is polysaccharide chain composed of repeating disaccharide units of glucuronic acid and N-acetyleglucoseamine. It is normally synthesized by type B synoviocytes or fibroblasts and secreted into the joints. In the osteoarthritic knee, the concentration of HA is decreased to nearly one half of normal, the MW is reduced and this is decreased interaction between HA molecules. These changes after the inherent viscous and elastic properties of HA and reduces the ability of the joint to resist stress and shear forces.
We have developed an innovative technology which allows to deliver high dosages of hyaluronic acid, optimizing the viscous and elastic properties of the formulation and improving its resistance to degradation. In summary, hyaluronic acid molecules are formulated in a physiological buffer as some functional groups of these molecules form a relative hydrophobic core and some other functional groups, such as carboxyl groups, break out the structure. When the hydrogel turns into nanoparticles, the carboxyl groups on the surfaces of the nanoparticles are exposed into the environment. Then, through a careful and complex process, these nanoparticles can interact with each other by coordinating using metal ions. Therefore, we will have a hydrogel that when placed in the synovial of joints, the nanoparticles can release from the structure and interact with multiple receptors on cells in joint, and trigger various cell signals and protein pathways such as Anti-apoptotic, Analgesic, bone metabolism, anti-inflammatory, proteoglycan synthesis, cartilage protection, and anti-OA.
Mannitol in CYTOJOINT® can play a free radical scavenging role and has an antioxidant effect.
Chondroitin Sulfate in the cross-linked network of sodium hyaluronate of CYTOJOINT® Extend can be released slowly and show different effects. It delivers nutrients to the joint cartilage, helps to inhibit the enzymes that decompose the joint cartilage and speeds up the formation of a new joint cartilage.