Light-Activatable Hyaluronic Acid Derivatives Releasing Nitric Oxide and Their Delivery in the Skin

The study investigates the development of two hyaluronic acid (HA) derivatives, HA-NOPD1 and HA-NOPD2, which release nitric oxide (NO) when exposed to blue light, aiming to enhance skin applications such as wound healing and tissue regeneration. These derivatives are stable in the dark and show increased human keratinocyte proliferation and migration under light, suggesting potential therapeutic uses for dermatological disorders. The research also focuses on microemulsions (MEs) for delivering these HA derivatives, optimizing them for stability and skin penetration. Experiments using porcine skin and Strat-M membranes confirmed effective skin permeation and controlled NO release under light exposure. This novel strategy combines HA's biological benefits with precise light-triggered NO release, paving the way for advanced dermatological therapies, including cosmetic rejuvenation and potential hair growth promotion. A patent application has been filed for this technology.