Hyaluronan-based hydrogels as dermal fillers: The biophysical properties that translate into a "volumetric" effect

PLoS One. 2019 Jun 11;14(6):e0218287. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0218287. eCollection 2019.

Abstract

Biophysical and biochemical data on hyaluronan (HA)-based dermal fillers strongly support their optimal use and design to meet specific requisites. Here, four commercially available (in Europe) HA "volumetric" fillers, among the most used in the clinical practice, have been characterized in vitro. Analyses revealed the highest amounts of water-soluble HA reported so far and provided hydrodynamic data for these soluble polymeric fractions. Volumetric gels exhibit a wide range of rigidity with most of them showing G' values around 200-300Pa. They greatly differ in cohesivity. 1mL of gel hydrates up to 2.4-3.2mL. The products completely solubilize due to Bovine Testicular Hyaluronidase (BTH)'s action, thus predicting in vivo complete resorption. For the first time, filler degradation due to reactive oxygen species (ROS) was studied by rheological measurements and a rank in stability was established. Studies using Human Dermal Fibroblasts (HDF) indicated a positive biological response to the HA networks. Further, gel capacity to prompt collagen I, elastin and aquaporin3 synthesis was demonstrated, thus suggesting a positive effect on skin elasticity and hydration, besides the physical volumetric action. The findings are the first wide assessment of features for the volumetric class of HA-fillers and include first data on their resistance to degradation by ROS and biological effects on HDF. The study represents a valuable contribution to the understanding of HA-fillers, useful to optimize their use and manufacture.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cell Line
  • Collagen Type I / metabolism*
  • Dermal Fillers* / chemistry
  • Dermal Fillers* / pharmacology
  • Fibroblasts / cytology
  • Fibroblasts / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Hyaluronic Acid* / chemistry
  • Hyaluronic Acid* / pharmacology
  • Hydrogels* / chemistry
  • Hydrogels* / pharmacology
  • Materials Testing*
  • Viscosity

Substances

  • Collagen Type I
  • Dermal Fillers
  • Hydrogels
  • Hyaluronic Acid

Grants and funding

Funding for ALG post-doc grant was obtained by PON01_000_1226 “Nutrafast”. Financial support for equipment maintenance and materials was also obtained by BioTekNet S.C.p.A. (Centro Regionale di Competenza in Biotecnologie Industriali). The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.