Recent advancements in Cancer Targeting Therapy with the Hyaluronic Acid as a Potential Adjuvant

Abstract

Introduction. The non-sulfated natural compound, Hyaluronic acid (HA), is a mucopolysaccharide that has an essential role in cellular biology; it is a fundamental element of the living cell. HA plays an essential role in targeted drug delivery; it has recently acquired much attention because of various advantages like biocompatibility, biodegradability, non-immunogenicity, and non-toxicity. Methods. This narrative review is based on the literature searched with keywords Hyaluronic acid, Hyaluronic acid in cancer therapy, Hyaluronic acid in cancer targeting, Hyaluronic acid in drug targeting, was done on PubMed and Elsevier database from January to May 2021. Research published in the last five years was considered; however, no such timeline is followed in cross-referencing. Results. From the literature, it is found that HA can recognize distinct receptors that are abnormally revealed in large numbers on the outer surface of cancerous tissues or cells; hence can be used for conjugation with anticancer drugs, facilitating their enhanced therapeutic activity over the cancer cells than normal cells. It is also found that HA-based systems also provide increased stability and solubility of anticancer agents in biological surroundings. Based on these findings and advantages, HA is conjugated with various delivery systems like micelles, liposomes, hydrogels, nanoparticles, etc. As per recent research, the HA-based system provides immunotherapy, gene therapy, targeted chemotherapy, and combination therapy with enormous applications in the evolution of highly efficacious and cost-effective therapy for the ministration of cancer. Conclusion. In this context, various literatures on HA as adjuvant for drug delivery system for cancer targeting represents the HA as a potential adjuvant for cancer treatment.