Presents state-of-the-art applications in hyaluronan research, from hyaluronan's physicochemical properties to its clinical role as a connective tissue marker and its surgical implications, particularly in ear, eye and orthopaedic surgery. Covers hyaluronan's synthesis and catabolism, its role in cells, its interactions with specific binding proteins, and its role in the embryonic nervous system.

Presents state-of-the-art applications in hyaluronan research, from hyaluronan's physicochemical properties to its clinical role as a connective tissue marker and its surgical implications, particularly in ear, eye and orthopaedic surgery. Covers hyaluronan's synthesis and catabolism, its role in cells, its interactions with specific binding proteins, and its role in the embryonic nervous system.

Partial table of contents:Secondary Structures in Hyaluronan Solutions: Chemical andBiological Implications (J. Scott).Turnover and Metabolism of Hyaluronan (J. Fraser & T.Laurent).Enzymic Pathways of Hyaluronan Catabolism (L. Rodénet al.).Hyaluronan and Hyaluronan-Binding Proteins in CartilaginousTissues (R. Mason, et al.).The Role of a Cell-Associated Hyaluronan-Binding Protein inFibroblast Behavior (E. Turley).The Role and Regulation of Tumor-Associated Hyaluronan (W.Knudson, et al.).Interactions Between Cells of the Immune System and HyaluronateSynthesis by Human Dermal Fibroblasts (T. Whiteside & R.Buckingham).Hyaluronan and Angiogenesis (D. West & S. Kumar).Changes in Hyaluronan Concentration in Tissues and Body Fluidsin Disease States (A. Engström-Laurent).The Specific Interaction Between Fibrin(ogen) and Hyaluronan:Possible Consequences in Hemostasis, Inflammation and Wound Healing(P. Weigel, et al.).General Discussion.Index of Contributors.Subject Index.