In the present studies, the cross-linked HA gel matrix was ~ 4 × more effective in scavenging free radicals in vitro than the same concentration of HMW HA (> 1 × 106) for the same 30 min duration (see Figure 3).
Additionally, studies were conducted using polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN), i.e., white blood cells associated with inflammation, that were stimulated with phorbal myristate acetate and compared with superoxide dismutase as the positive control (100% inhibition).
The cross-linked HA gel inhibited the generation of free radicals (O2-) by PMN (data not shown) in a dose-dependent manner.