The role of hyaluronic acid in protecting surface‐active phospholipids from lysis by exogenous phospholipase A2

Abstract

It is reasonable to assume that HA plays an important indirect role in the steady state of the boundary lubrication process of joints by protecting SAPL from being lysed by PLA(2). However, as excessive loading generates free radicals within the joint (among other effects), the HA that is degraded in this way is incapable of protecting SAPL from lysis by PLA(2). When the rate of degradation exceeds that of synthesis, there will be insufficient replacement of HA and/or SAPL, resulting in denudation of the articular surfaces. These are then exposed to increasing friction, and hence increased danger of degenerative joint changes.