IBSA’S Hyaluronic Acids
In 2016 IBSA recognised the limitation of linear and cross-linked technology in producing HA. Their scientists researched and created a patented technology to produce a novel molecular structure for HA consisting of a hybrid cooperative complex, combining both high and low molecular weight in a single injection (Sinovial HL®), signifying an innovative step forward in the production of HA through biofermentation. The production process uses NAHYCO technology through thermal processing, to combine molecules together using hydrogen bonds.
This enabled production of HA at a lower viscosity than linear and cross-linked products, which in turn enabled them to achieve a much higher concentration of 3.2% HA, breaking the 2.4% concentration ceiling. Sinovial HL® has optimised fluid behaviour (rheology), which more closely mimics the natural synovial fluid in comparison to linear or cross-linked HA. This enables the HA to provide both lubrication whilst the joint is at rest to shock absorption during joint loading, therefore never sacrificing either function. This represents a significant innovation in the UK for HA viscosupplementation injections.
In 2021, IBSA launched Sinogel® a unique viscosupplementation injection combining in a hybrid cooperative complex 2.4% high molecular weight HA with 1.6% sodium chondroitin another glycosaminoglycan. Designed specifically for larger, weight bearing joints it aims to restore the shock absorption lost following injury or early OA. It is the first injection available in the UK which combines HA with chondroitin and there is promising research to support reduction in pain and improvement in function for hip and knee osteoarthritis.
References
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Migliore A, Blicharski T, Plebanski R, Zegota Z, Gyula G, Rannou F, Reginster JY. Knee Osteoarthritis Pain Management with an Innovative High and Low Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid Formulation (HA-HL): A Randomized Clinical Trial. Rheumatol Ther. 2021 Dec;8(4):1617-1636. doi: 10.1007/s40744-021-00363-3. Epub 2021 Aug 30. PMID: 34462887; PMCID: PMC8572249.
Abate M, Salini V. Efficacy and safety study on a new compound associating low and high molecular weight hyaluronic acid in the treatment of hip osteoarthritis. International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology. 2017;30(1):89-93. doi:10.1177/0394632016689275
Papalia R, Salini V, Voglino N, Fortina M, Carta S, Sadile F, Costantino C. Single-Dose Intra-Articular Administration of a Hybrid Cooperative Complex of Sodium Hyaluronate and Sodium Chondroitin in the Treatment of Symptomatic Hip Osteoarthritis: A Single-Arm, Open-Label, Pilot Study. Rheumatol Ther. 2021 Mar;8(1):151-165. doi: 10.1007/s40744-020-00255-y. Epub 2020 Nov 27. PMID: 33245554; PMCID: PMC7991040.
Sconza C, Romano D, Scaturro D, Mauro GL, Leonardi G, Alito A, Respizzi S, Kon E, Di Matteo B. Safety and Efficacy of Hybrid Cooperative Complexes of Sodium Hyaluronate and Sodium Chondroitin for the Treatment of Patients with Symptomatic Knee Osteoarthritis. Rheumatol Ther. 2024 Feb 12. doi: 10.1007/s40744-024-00643-8. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 38345716.
