Sodium hyaluronate

Sodium hyaluronate is a salt form of hyaluronic acid, which is a naturally occurring polysaccharide found in the human body, particularly in connective tissues, skin, and cartilage. Here are some key details about sodium hyaluronate:

### Chemical Information:

- **CAS Number**: 9067-32-7

- **Molecular Formula**: C14H22N2O11S

- **Molecular Weight**: Varies depending on the source, generally around 400,000 g/mol for a high molecular weight form.

### Properties:

- **Appearance**: Typically a white to off-white powder.

- **Solubility**: Soluble in water, forming a viscous solution. 

### Uses:

1. **Medical Applications**: 

   - **Ophthalmology**: Used in eye drops for dry eye treatment and during cataract surgery.

   - **Orthopedics**: Injections into joints for osteoarthritis treatment to improve lubricity and reduce pain.

   - **Dermatology**: Used in dermal fillers for cosmetic purposes to enhance skin hydration and reduce wrinkles.

2. **Cosmetics**:

   - Commonly found in moisturizers, serums, and other skincare products for its hydrating properties.

3. **Food Industry**: 

   - Occasionally used as a food additive for its thickening and stabilizing properties.

### Mechanism:

Sodium hyaluronate attracts and retains moisture, providing hydration to tissues and improving elasticity. This is why it is widely used in various beauty and health products.