WO2007101243A1

WO2007101243A1 - Derivatives of hyaluronic acids

Info

Publication number: WO2007101243A1
Application number: PCT/US2007/062960
Authority: WO
Inventors: Feng Xu
Original assignee: Novozymes Biopolymer A/S
Priority date: 2006-02-28
Filing date: 2007-02-28
Publication date: 2007-09-07
Also published as: JP2009528438A; CN101432311A; EP1991588A1; US20100273734A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to methods for preparing a derivative of a hyaluronic acid, comprising: (a) mixing a liquid solution comprising the hyaluronic acid and a diamine, a polyamine, or a combination thereof, at a pH suitable to form an imine; (b) reducing the imine to an amine with a reductant at a pH suitable to produce the derivative of the hyaluronic acid; and (c) recovering the derivative of the hyaluronic acid. The present invention also relates to isolated derivatives of a hyaluronic acid, comprising the hyaluronic acid and a diamine, a polyamine, or a combination thereof.

Description

DERJVAUVES OF HYALURONIC ACIDS

Background of the invention

Ffetø of the Invention

The present invention relates to derivatives of a hyaluronic acsd and methods for preparing the derivatives of the hyaluronic acid.

Description of ih& Related Art

Hyaluronic acid (HA) Ss a natural and linear carbohydrate polymer belonging to the ciass of non-suffated giycosamsnogiycans. it is composed of beta-1,3-Λ£-acetyl glucosamine and bela-1,4~øjucuronic acid repeating dϊsaccharide units with moiecuiar weights up to 10 MDa. Hyaluronic acid is present in hyaline cartilage, synovial joint fluid, and skin tissue, both dermis and epidermis, and can b© extracted from natural tissues including connective tissue of vertebrates, human umbHicai cord, and rooster combs.

Numerous rotes of hyaluronic acid have been identified in the human body (see, Laurent T. C. and Fraser J. R, E., 1992, FASEB J. 6: 2397-2404; and Toole B.P., 1991, "Proteoglycans and hyalurαnan in morphogenesis and differentiation." in: CeIi Biology of the Extracellular Matrix, pp. 305-341, Hay E. D._: ed., Plenum, New York), (t piays an important rote as a mechanical support for cells of many tissues, such as skin, tendons, muscles and cartilage. Hyaluronic acid is InvoSyed in key biological processes, such as the moistening of tissues and lubrication, tt is also suspected of being involved in numerous physiological functions, such as adhesion, development, celj motility, cancer, angiogenesis, and wound healϊng. DUB to the unique physical and biological properties of hyaluronic add (including vsscoeiasttcity, biocompaϋbilsty, and bsodegradability), hyaluronic acid is employed in a wide range of current and developing applications within cosmetics, ophthalmology, rheumatology, drug and gene delivery, wound healing, and tissue engineering.

The water-binding capacity and viscoelasfic property of hyaluronic aαό are important in its use as a biomaterial. These properties are controlled by the concentration and molecular weight of hyaluronic acid.

High molecular weight hyaluronic acid has been traditionally extracted from rooster combs and bovine vitreous humor, but it often forms a complex with proteoglycans, making its purification difficult (O'Rβgan ei? a/._t 1994, Internationa! Journal of Biological M&cromotecules 16: 283-286). Aiternatively, hyaluronic acid can be produced by bacterial fermentation processes. While Streptococcus strains are known to produce high molecular hyaiuronic acid, the strains are often virulent and pathogenic, making purification difficult and expensive. Recombinant methods involving Batiilus host cells can also be used to produce hyaluronic acid (U.S. Patent No, 6,951,743, WO 03/0175902), but hyaluronic add so produced reportedly has an average molecular weight in the range of 1 to 2 MOa or less.

The use of hyaluronic acid in several of the above applications ss limited by the availability of hyaluronic acid having a suitable molecular weight to generate desirable vtscoejastic, mechanical, stability, and/or matrix/carrier properties. For example, ophthalmic or osteoarthrϊtic applications can require a hyaluronic acid of 4 MDB or higher (Wσbig ef a/., 1S99, Clin Then 21: 1549-1662; Armstrong et a/., 1997, Applied and Environmental Microbiology 83: 2759-2764; Goa and Beπfieid, 1994_S Drugs 47: 536-568; Swann and Kuo, 1991, Hyaluronic acid, p. 286-305, Sn D. Byrom (ed.), Bϊomøterials-nove! materials from biological sources, Stockton Press, Hew York, NY; ϋ,S. Patent No, 4,784,990), and cosmetic applications can require a hyaiuronic acid of 2-4 MDa {Swann and Kuo, 1991, suprn; U.S, Patent No. 4,784.990). Consequently, there is a need in the art for methods to make derivatives of hyaluronic acid with higher average molecular weights.

It Is an object of the present invention to provide new methods for making derivatives of a hyaluronic acid of varying average molecular weights.

Summary of the Invention

The present invention relates to methods for preparing a derivative of a hyaluronic acid, comprising:

(a) mixing a liquid solution comprising the hyaluronic acid and a diamine, a potyarnine, or a combination thereof, at a pH suitable to form an iroine-

(b) reducing the imine to an amine with a reductant at a pH suitable to produce the derivative of the hyaluronic acid; and (C) recovering the derivative of the hyaluronic acid.

The present invention afso relates to isolated derivatives of a hyaluronic acid, comprising the hyaluronic acid and a diamine, a poϊyamine, or a combination thereof.

The present invention also relates to compositions comprising such a hyaiuronic acid derivative and an inactive components), an active components), or a combination of an inactive componeπt(s) and an active component(s).

The present invention also relates to cosmetic and sanitary articies comprising such a hyaluronic acid derivative or a composition thereof. The present invention also relates to a medicament capsule, comprising such a hyaluronic acid derivative or a composition thereof.

Brief Description of the Figures

Figure 1 shows the structural formula of the repeating disaccharide unit of N- acetyiglucosamine (GIcNAc) and glucuronic acid (GfcUA) in hyaluronic acsd.

Figure 2 shows the reaction of a hyaluronic acid with a diamine or a polyamine to produce an \mm&. Figure 3 shows reduction of an imiπe with taorohydride as the reάuctaύi to produce an amine.

Figure 4 shows a derivative of a diamine and a hyaluronic acid wherein R' is either H or NHCOCH₃, R" is either CO₂H or CH₃OH, and R is the rest of the structure of a diamine.

Detailed Description of the Invention

The present invention relates to methods for preparing st derivative of a hyaluronic actd, comprising: (a) mixing a liquid solution comprising the hyaluronic acid and a diamine, a pofyamϊne, or a combination thereof, at a pH suitable to form an imlne;

(b) reducing the imine to an amine with a reductani at a pH suitable to produce the derivative of the hyaluronic &ciά, anά (c) recovering the derivative of the hyaluronic actd.

The term "hyaluronic add⁸ is defined herein as an unsuϊphated glycosamsnogiycan composed of repeating disaccharide units of /tf~acety?glucosamine (GIcNAc) and glucuronic acid (GScUA) Hnkad together by alternating beta- 1,4- giycosidic bonds and beta~1,3~g!yeαsidlc bonds. Hyaluronic acid is also known as hyaiuronan, hyaiυronate, or HA. The structural formula of the repeating disaccharide unit of N- acetyigiucosamine (GicNAc) and glucuronic acid (GIcUA) is shown in Figure 1.

It is understood herein that the term "hyaluronic acid" encompasses a group of unsuiphated glycosaminoglycanε with different molecular weights or even the degraded fractions of the same, For example, the molecular weight of hyaluronic acid can vary from 800 to 10,000,000 Da, or higher in molecular weight

Any available hyaluronic acid or salt thereof can be used in the methods of the present invention- Possible sources include connective tissue of vertebrates, human umbilical cord, rooster combs, microorganisms (aα\_f Streptococcus), and recombinant microorganisms {e.g., Bacillus). Salts Include sodium hyaluronate, potassium

"hyaiurortate, ammonium hyaluronate, calcium hyaiuronate, magnesium hyaluronate, zinc hyaluronate, or cobait hyaluronate.

In a preferred aspect, the hyaluronic add is obtained naturally or recombinant from a microbial ceii comprising the genetic machinery to produce hyaluronic acid. In a more preferred aspect, the hyaluronic acid is obtained from a Streptococcus: cell in another more preferred aspect, the hyaluronic acid is obtained recombinants from a BacHfus host cell. In a most preferred aspect, the hyaluronic acid is obtained from a Streptococcus zaoepid&micus ceil (U.S. Patent Ho. 4,801,639, European Patent No. 0694616). In another most preferred aspect, the hyaluronic acid is obtained recombinant!/ from a Bacillus subtitle or Bacillus Hcheniformis host ceϊϊ (WO 03/0176902). in the methods of the present invention, the average molecular weight of a hyaluronic acid derivative wilt depend on the average molecular weight of the starting hyiauronJc acid. The starting hyaluronic acid can be of one average molecular weight two or more average molecular weights, or a range of average molecular weights. The choice of the molecular weight of th© starting hyaluronic acid will depend on whether the molecular weight of a hyaluronic acid is being increased by elongation using a diamine or whether a branched hyaluronic add is being made using a poiyamme. For ihβ former, a starting hyaluronic acid of 1-2 MDa is preferable. For the iatter, the molecular weight can be any molecular weight. The choice of the molecular weight of the starting hyaluronic acid wHi also depend on the application intended in order ϊo generate desirable viscoelastic, mechanical, stability, and/or matnx/carrier properties.

The average molecular weight of a hyaluronic acid or derivative thereof can be determined using standard methods in the art, such as those described by Ueno etai, 1988, Chem. Pharm. Buff. 36« 4971-4975; Wyatt, 1993, Anal Chim. Acta 272: 1-40: anti Wyatt Technologies, 19S9_S "Light Scattering University DAWN Course Manual" and "DAWN EOS Manual" Wyatt Technology Corporation, Santa Barbara, California. Size exclusion chromatography coupled to mulit-angle laser light scattering (SEC-MALLS) ts a preferred method in the art because it reportedly can measure the molecular weight of hyaluronic acid up to 4 MDa, However, SEC-MALtS can be Bmϊted in its use to measure high molecular weights because either ths available aqueous SEC column has limited pore size or hyaluronic acid molecules can interwine Intra- and inter-moIecularJy, leading to local heterogeneity and rendering a hyaluronic acid solution liquid non- Newtonian. Nonfdea! (Newtonian} hyaluronic add solutions can have difficulty passing through various capillary/interstitial pathways in SEC-MALLS systems, and the pressure/shear of the system may degrade hyaluronic acid (Solies et ai, 2002, Biomedical Chromatography 16: 459-462; Armstrong et a!., 1997, AppL E«wron. MicrobioL 63: 2759-2764). Alternatively, viscosity and sedimentation/centrifugation methods can be used to estimate the molecular weight See, for example, Hokputsa et sA, 200$, Eur, Biopftys, J. 32: 450-456 and Soltes øt a/,_c 2002. supra, fn the methods of the present invention, the average molecular weight of a starting hyaluronic acid can be in the range of about 800 to about 10,000,000 Da or higher in molecular weight, in a preferred aspect, the average molecular weight of a starting hyaluronic acfd is in the range of about 1,000 to about 10,000,000 Da. Jn a preferred aspect, the average molecular weight of a starting hyaluronic acid is fn the range of about 1,000 to about 7,500,000 Da. in another preferred aspect, the average molecuiar weight of a starting hyaluronic acid is in the range of about 2,000 to about 5,000,000 Da. In another preferred aspect, the average molecular weight of a starting hyaluronic add is in the range of about 2,000 to about 4,000,000 Da. In another preferred aspect, the average molecular weight of a starting hyaluronic acid is ϊn tie range of about 2,000 to about 3,000,000 Da. in another preferred aspect, the average molecular weight of a starting hyaluronic acid is in the range of about 4,000 to about 3,000,000 Qa. In another preferred aspect, the average molecular weight of a starting hyaluronic acid is in the range of about 8,000 to about 3,000,000 Da. In another preferred aspect, the average molecular weight of a starting hyaluronic acid is sn the range of about 10,000 to about 2,500,000 Da. in another preferred aspect, the average molecular weight of a starting hyaluronic acid is in the range of about 25,000 to about 2,500,000 Da. Fn another preferred aspect, the average moiecuSar weight of a starting hyaluronic acid is in the range of about 50.000 to about 2,600.000 Da. in another preferred aspect, the average molecular weight of a starting hyaluronic add is ϊn the range of about 50,000 to about 2,000,000 Da. In another preferred aspect, the average molecular weight of a starting hyaluronic add is in the range of about 50,000 to about 1,500,000 Da, In another preferred aspect, the average molecular weight of a starting hyaluronic add is in the range of about 50,000 to about 1,000,000 Da. In another preferred aspect, the average molecular weight of a starting hyaluronic acid is in the range of about 50,000 to about 500,000 Da.

The level of hyaluronic acid may be determined according to the modified carbazolθ method (BMer and Muir, 1962_S Anai Bioch&m. 4: 330-334).

The term "diamine" Is defined herein as an organic compound composed of two amino groups. In the methods of the present invention, the diamine can be any diamine composed of primary amines, secondary amines, or a combination of a primary amt^'ne(s) and a secondary amine(s). In a preferred aspect, the amino groups of the diamine are primary amino groups. In another preferred aspect, the diamine is selected from the group consisting of an aliphatic diamine, aromatic diamine, and heteroatomic diamine. For example, the aiiphatic diamine can be 1 _t3~diarninopropane, 1 ,4- diaminobutane, 1,5-diaminopentane, 1,&-diaminøhexane, 1,7-diammohβptane, 1 ,8- dϊesminooctane, or lysyi-giycyMysine tripepiide; the aromatic diamine can be 1,4- diaminobenzene, I.Φdiarrtsnomethylbenzene, or their branched, eyclized, substituted, oxidized, or dehydrogenated derivatives or analogs; and the heteroatomtc diamine can be 2,5-diaminofuran, 2,S-d(aminodJoxin_> or a glucosamine dimer. However, any diamine can be used in practicing the methods of the present invention.

In a more preferred aspect, the diamine is selected from the group consisting of 1,3-diarnff>opropane, 1,4-butane, 1,5-diamtnoρentane, 1,6~diaminchβxane, 1 ,7- dsaminoheptane, and 1,8~diaminoαctane.

The term "polyamfne" is defined herein as an organic compound composed of three or more amino groups, in the methods of the present invention, the polyamiπe can be any potyamine composed of primary amines, secondary amines, or a combination of one or more primary amines and secondary amines. In a preferred aspect, the amino groups of the poiyamine are primary amino groups. In another preferred aspect, the poϊyamine is seϊected from the group consisting of an aliphatic polyamtne, aromatic poiyamine, and heterøaiomsc poSyamine.

For example, the aliphatic polyamine can be 13~diamino-2~3minomefhy$- propane, 1,7-diamtno-4-amiπomethyl-heptane, 1 ,10-diamino-4,7-diaminotτsethyl-decane₅ other triamino~n~aϊkane, tetraarmrtoalkane. frϊamfno-aikene, tetraaminoalkyne, or their branched, cycttzed, substituted, oxidized, or dehydrogenated derivatives or analogs: the aromatic poiymine can be 1,3,5-triam(nobenzene, 1,2,4,6-tetraaminobenκene, 1,3,5- trlaminomethyiben^ene, I^.^S-teiraaminomethyibenzejie, or their branched, cydized, substituted, oxidized, or dehydrogenated derivatives or analogs; and the heterøatomic polyamine can b© 2,3,4,5-tetraaminofuran, 2_I3_[5,8-tetraamir5odioxin_> chϊtosan, polyiysme. or iysine-containing polypeptides. However, any poiyamine can be used in practicing the methods of the present Invention.

In a more preferred aspect, the polyamine is poϊy-L-lysine or a polylysine- contalntng polypeptide. In the methods of the present invention, a hyaluronic acid is reacted with a diamine, a poiyamine, or a combination thereof according to the reaction shown in Figure 2 to produce an jmine. The reducing group, e.g., aldehyde or CiOH in the cycltzed hemϊacetai form, may be either from Λ/~acetySglucosamine or glucuronic acid depending on which group is at the terminus of hyaluronic add. The optimal pH for producing an lmlne is preferably In the siightiy acidic pH range, e.g., pH at about 4-6,

Combinations of diamines, polyamines, a diamine and a poiyainme, or diamines and polyamines can be used in the methods of the present invention, in a preferred

- δ - aspect, the reaction is composed of one diamine or one poiyamine.

In the methods of the present invention, the concentration of a hyaluronic acid is preferably in the range of about 1 nM to about 10 mM. The choice of concentration wNi depend on the molecular weight of the hyaluronic acki. For example, a hyaluronic acid with a molecular weight of 1 MDa wiiϊ likely require a Sower concentration, &.g., 1 μltfl, compared to a hyaluronic acid with a molecular weight of 1000 Da. However, any concentration of a hyaluronic acid may be used in the methods of present invention as long as the dissolved hyaluronic acid has a reasonable viscosity. The concentration of a diamine and/or a pαϊyamine will be in molar excess as described below. In order to optimize conversion of a starting hyaluronic acid to a derivative of a diamine, a pαiyamine, or a combination thereof, the molar concentration of the starting hyaluronic acid must be m sufficient excess relative to the molar concentration of the amino groups of the diamine, the poiyamsne, or the combination thereof to minimize the amount of unreacted hyaluronic acid at the end of the reaction. For a diamine, the molar ratio of a hyaluronic acid to a diamine Is preferably at least about 4;1, more preferably at least about 3.5:1, even more preferably at least about 3:1, and most preferably at least about 2.5:1,

For a poiyamine, the molar ratio of a hyaluronic acid to a polyamine wili depend on the desired degree of derivatization of the polyamsne with the hyaluronic acid. For example, where the desired degree of derivatization of a polyamine with a hyaluronic acid is two hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of pαiyamine, the ratio of the hyaluronic acid to the polyarnine on a molar basis is preferably &t least about 4:1, more preferably at least about 3.5:1, even more preferably at least about 3:1, and most preferably at least about 2,5:1. For higher degrees of derivatteatϊon or total derivatization of every amine of the poiyamine. the molar ratio would need to be adjusted accordingly to higher molar ratios.

For a combination of a diamine and a polyamine, the molar ratio of a hyaluronic acid to the diamine and the polyamine will again depend on the desired degree of derivatfzation of the polyamine with the hyaluronic acid. For example, where the desired degree of derivatization of a diamine with hyaluronic acid is two hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of diamine and the desired degree of derivatization of a polyamine with hyaluronic acid is two hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of polyamine, the ratio of the hyaluronic acid to the combination of diamine and polyamine on a molar basis (assuming equal concentrations of the diamine and the polyamine) ss preferably at least about 8:1, more preferably at least about 7:1, even more preferably at least about 6:1, and most preferably at least about 5:1. Again, for higher degrees of derivatization or total derivatization of every amine of tie pofyamϊne, the molar ratios would need to be adjusted accordingly to higher molar ratios. In addition, depending on the motor ratio of the diamine m& the pofyarnine, the molar ratio will need further consideration.

(n a preferred aspect, the molar ratio of a diamine to a polyarmne is preferably about 1:1000, more preferably about 1:500, more preferably about 1:250, more preferably about 1:100, more preferably about 1:50, more preferably about 1:25, more preferably about 1:10, even more preferably about 1:5, most preferably about 1:2.5, and even most preferably 1:1. In another preferred aspect, the molar ratio of a poϊyaroϊne to a diamine is preferably about 1:1000, more preferably about 1;500, more preferably about 1:250, more preferably about 1:100, more preferably about 1:50, more preferably about 1:25, more preferably about 1:10, even more preferably about 1:5, most preferably about 1:2.5, and even most preferably 1:1. However, in the methods of the present invention, any desirable molar ratio of a diamine and a poiyamine can be used.

It is recognized that depending on the physical properties of the diamine or the poiyamine (e.g., water soiubHity) and whether the amino groups are primary or secondary amino groups, or a combination thereof, the molar ratio of the hyaluronic acid to the diamine, the poiyamϊne, or the combination thereof, may need to be adjusted accordingly depending on the accessibility of the reducing group of a hyaluronic acid to an amino group. In practicing the methods of the present invention with a poiyamine, it may be desirable to multiply the molecular weight of the starting hyaluronic acid, e.g., triple, quadruple, etc. In such a situation, higher ratios of a hyaluronic acid to a poiyamine will be required, Th© optimum ratio can be determined empirically by those skilled in th© art. The reaction fs generally conducted in a liquid solution composed of water. The aqueous solution may be supplemented with an organic solvent to increase the solubility of the diamine, the poiyamine. or the combination thereof. For example, organic solvents such as an alcohol (e.g., methanol, ethanol, propanoi, and others alcohofs), ketone (e.g., acetone), and other common organic solvents can foe used. Alternatively, the liquid solution can be primarily an organic solvent such as dsoxin, furan, dimethyiformarmde (DMF)₁ and dirneihylsuifoxide (DlvtSG}. The organic solvent may be supplemented with water.

In the methods of the present invention, the iϊquid solution of step (a) is preferably pmp&red by dissolving a hyaluronic acid in water, e.g., deionized water, to form an aqueous liquid comprising hyaluronic acid. The water is either buffered or sodium hydroxide is added to the aqueous liquid, comprising hyaluronic add, so that the hydroxide groups of tie hyaluronic acid are deprσtonated. The aqueous liquid is left for a period of time at a low temperature to insure uniform solvation of the hyaluronic acid. Then a examine, a polyamine, or a combination thereof is added. After complete addition of the diamine, the polyamine, or the combination thereof, the liquid reaction mixture is stirred or shaken for sufficient time to insure conversion to an imine. The time for the reaction can be a few minutes up to a few hours depending on the concentration of the reactants, temperature and pB.

The pH of the reaction of a hyaluronic acid with a diamine, a polyamine, or a combination thereof is maintained preferabiy between about 4 and about 9, more preferably between about 4 and about S, even more preferably between about 4 and about 7, and most preferably between about S and about β. The pH can be maintained either by buffer and/or by addition of dilute acid (β.g., HCi) or base (e.g., sodium hydroxide).

The temperature of the reaction of a hyaluronic add mϊh a diamine, a polyamine, or a combination thereof is maintained preferabiy between about O⁰C and about 100⁰C, more preferabiy between about 10⁰C and about 8O⁰C, even more preferabiy between about 15⁰C and about 60⁰C, most preferabiy between about 20⁰C and about 50⁰C, and even most preferably between about 25⁰C anci about 4O⁰C.

The term "imine" or "Schtff base" is defined herein as a functional group or type of cnemicaf compound containing a carbon-nitrogen double bond with the nitrogen atom of an amine connected to an aryi group or an aikyi group but not hydrogen, as shown betow.

R₁R₂C=N-R₃ wherein R₁ Rs, and R₃ are selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, carbon- anchored groups (aikyl, benzyl, carbonyi, cyanide, carboxyi, and substituted derivatives/analogs), oxygen-anchored groups (hydroxy!, ether, ester, and substituted derivatives/analogs), nitrogen-anchored groups (amine, amide, and substituted derivatives/analogs), and other atom-anchored groups (haiϊde, sulfonyi, sulfate, phosphate, and substituted derivatives/analogs), imines can be synthesized from an aromatic amine and a carbonyi compound in a nucleophilic addition to a hemsaminal followed elimination of water to the imine. The Schiff base is synonymous with an azomethine.

In the methods of the present invention, the reduction of step (b) is performed to reduce or hydrogenate the C-N double bond to a C-N single bond. This is accomplished using a reductant/eiectron-donor/hydrogenating agent {hereinafter "reductanf). The reduction is preferably conducted in an aqueous solution at a pH and temperature suitable for the reduction. The aqueous solution is preferably either buffered or a dilute acid (e,g., HCI) or base (e.ø,, sodium hydroxide) is added to maintain the pH. After complete addition of the reductant the liquid reaction mixture is stirred or shaken to insure maxima! conversion of the C=IM ctoubfe bond to a C-N single bond. The time for the reduction cart be a few minutes up to a few hours depending on the concentrations of the lmine and reduciani temperature, and pH. An example of a reduction using borohydride as the reductant ts shown in Figure 3.

In the methods of the present invention, the reduction can be performed by any method known in the art, Sn a preferred aspect, the reduction is performed with a chemical reductant. In another preferred aspect, the reduction is performed by electrochemical reduction. When the reduction is performed with a chemical reductant, any suitable chemical reductant known in the art can be used that reduces an [mine to an amine. The chemical reductant can be selected from the group consisting of a hydride, metal hydride, metai/hydrogen, and sulfhydryMike reduciani. In a preferred aspect, the chemical reductant is selected from the group consisting of sodium cyanoborohydride (NaCNBH₃), sodium feorohydπde (NaBM.*), ifthium aluminum hydride (LiAiH₄), hydroxycycfopentadienyl ruthenium hydride, Raney nickei and H₂, and sodium dithionitβ. See, for example, Casey er Bl... 2006, J. Am. Ch&m. Soc. 128; 2286-2293, Abdei-Magid &tal,_f 1996, J. Org. Chem. 61: 3849-3862, Pojer, 1979, AusL J, Ch&m. 32: 201-204.

The reduction can aiso be performed electrøtihemicaily using methods known in the art. See, for example, Boettcher &i aL, 1997, Inorg. Chem. 36: 2498-2504.

The pH of the reduction reaction wit? depend on the reductant used. The pH is maintained preferably between about 4 &n<i about 10, more preferably between about 4 and about 9, even more preferably between about δ and about 9, and most preferably between about S and about 8. The pH can foe maintained either by buffer and/or by addition of dilute sodium hydroxide.

The temperature of the reduction reaction is maintained preferably between about O⁰C and about 100⁰C, more preferably between about 10⁰C and about 80⁰C, even more preferably between about 15°C and about 80⁰C₁ most preferably between about 20⁶C and about SO⁰C, and even most preferably between about 2S⁰C and about 40⁰C. The average molecuiar weight of the hyaluronic acid derivative can then be determined according to the methods described herein.

The average molecular weight of the hyaJuronic acid derivative can be in the range of about 800 to about 20,00O₁OOO Da, or higher in molecular weight. In & preferred aspect, the average molecular weight of the hyaluronic acid derivative is in the range of about 1,000 to about 20,00O₅OOO Da. In another preferred aspect, the average molecuiar weight of the hyaluronic acid derivative is in the range of about 1,000 to about 15.000,000 Da, in another preferred aspect, the average molecular weight of the hyaluronic acid derivative is in the range of about 1,000 to about 10,000,000 Da. In another preferred aspect, the average molecular weight of the hyaluronic acid derivative Is in the range of about 2,000 to about 10,000,000 Da. in another preferred aspect, the average molecular weight of the hyaluronic acid derivative is in the range of about 2,000 to about 8,000,000 Da. In another preferred aspect, the average moiecuiar weight of the hyaluronic acid derivative is in the range of about 2.000 to about 8,000,000 Da. in another preferred aspect, the average molecular weight of the hyaluronic acid derivative js in the range of about 4,000 to about 6,000,000 Da. In another preferred aspect, the average motecuiar weight of the hyaluronic acid derivative is in the range of about S₁OOO to about 6,000,000 Da. In another preferred aspect, the average moiecuiar weight of the hyaluronic acid derivative is in the range of about 10,000 to about 5,000,000 Da, in another preferred aspect, the average molecular weight of the hyaluronic acid derivative is $n the range of about 25,000 to about 5,000,000 Da. In another preferred aspect, the average moiecuiar weight of the hyaluronic acid derivative is in the range of about 50,000 to about 5,000,000 Oa. In another preferred aspect, the average molecular weight of the hyaluronic acid derivative is in the range of about 50,000 to about 4,000,000 Da. In another preferred aspect, the average molecular weight of the hyaluronic add derivative is in the range of about 50,000 to about 3_<00G_t0GG Da. in another preferred aspect, the average molecular weight of the hyaluronic acid derivative Is In the range of about 60,000 to about 2,000,000 Da. in another preferred aspect, the average motecuiar weight of the hyaluronic acid derivative is in the range of about 50,000 to about 1,000,000 Da. in another preferred aspect the average molecular weight of the hyaluronic acid derivative is In the range of about 50,000 to about 500,000 Da. The resulting hyaluronic acid derivative may be recovered by methods known in the art. See, for example, U.S. Patent No. 5,023,175 and Radaeva ef af., 19δ7, Priki Biokhim. MikrobioL 33: 133-13?. For example, the hyaluronic acid derivative may be recovered by conventional procedures including, but not limited to, centrifugation, filtration, extraction, spray-drying, evaporation, or precipitation. The isolated hyaluronic acid derivative may then be further purified by a variety of procedures Known In the art including, but not limited to, chromatography fe.ff-, Ion exchange, affinity, hydrophobic, chromatofocusing, snά size exclusion), electrophoretic procedures {e.g., preparative isoelectric focusing), differential solubility {e.g., ammonium sulfate precipitation), or extraction (see, e.g.-. Protein Purification_* J.-C. Janson and Lars Ryden_< editors, VCH Publishers, New York, 1 δSθ).

For example, after the reduction Is completed, the hyaluronic acid derivative can be precipitated by addition of an excess of an organic solvent Sike ethanol, acetone, methanol, or isopropyl aicohoi. For purification of the derivatized product, it can be centrifuged and washed with a solvent such as ethanoi, methanol, or acetone. The product may then be diaiyzed to provide a substantially pure, hyaluronic acid derivative.

The hyaluronic derivatives can be characterized by proton or carbon-13 MMR by determining specific chemical shifts corresponding to the aminated sorbitol (giucitoi), which are different from those of the pyranosyl beta-^*i.3~N~acetyl glucosamine or beta- 1 ,4-giucuronic acid unit of hyaluronic acid, or other spectroscopic methods developed for glucose and its derivatives (McNichols and Cote, 2000, Journal of Btomedlcaf Optics 5; 5-16), or by the loss of hyaluronic acid reducing end as detected by reducing sugar- specific reagents such as p-hydrøxybenzoic add hydrazide (Schutein, 1997, J. BfotechnoL 57: 71-81).

The present invention also relates to isolated derivatives of a hyaluronic acid, comprising the hyaluronic acid and a diamine, a poiyamJne, or a combination thereof. For example, an isolated hyaluronic acid derivative may have the structure HA-CH₂-NH- R-NH-CH₂-HA for a diamine and HA-OH₂-HH-Ri-NH-CH₂-HA)-H H-CH₂-HA for εt pofyamtne, wherein HA Is hyaluronic acid and R is the rest of the structure of a diamine or a poiyamine. An example of a derivative of hyaluronic add according to the present Invention is shown fn Figure 4. The formation of a Schiffs base of a diamine, for example, with the reducing end (aldose) of a hyaluronic acid leads to the opening of the hyaluronic acid end's pyranose ring, and the ScMff base reduction leads to the formation of the corresponding sorbitol moiety.

Derivatives of a hyaluronic acid anά a diamine comprise or consist of Wo hyaluronic add molecules per molecule of diamine.

Derivatives of a hyaluronic acid and a poiyamine comprise or consist of two or mors hyaluronic add molecules per molecule of poiyamine. in a preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a poiyamine comprises or consists of at least two hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of polyarrwne. In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a poiyamine comprises or consists of at ϊeast three hyaluronic acid molecules p&r molecule of poiyamine. In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a poiyamine comprises or consists of at teast four hyaluronic actd molecules per molecule of poiyamine, Sn another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a poiyamine comprises or consists of ai feast five hyaluronic acid rnotecules per molecule of poiyamine. fn another preferred aspect a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a poiyamine comprises or consists of at least six hyaluronic add molecules per molecule of poiyarrύne. In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a pofyamine comprises or consists of at least seven hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of poiyamine. In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a pofyamine comprises or consists of at (east eight hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of pαiyarnsne. In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic add and a poiyamine comprises or consists of at (east nine hyaluronic add molecules per moiecυie of poiyamsne. In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid anύ a poiyamine comprises or consists of at least ten hyaluronic add molecules per molecule of polyamtne.

In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic add and a poiyamine comprises or consists of two hyaluronic acid molecules per rnoiecule of poiyamine. In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a poiyamine comprises or consists of three hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of poiyamine. In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a poiyamine comprises or consists of four hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of poiyamine. In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acsd and a poiyamine comprises or consists of five hyaluronic acid molecules -per molecule of poiyamine. In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a pσlysmine comprises or consists of six hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of poiyamine. In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a poiyamine comprises or consists of seven hyaluronic acid molecules p&r molecule of poiyamine. In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a polyarrsine comprises or consists of eight hyaluronic acid molecules per moiβcufe of poiyamine. In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a poiyamine comprises or consists of nine hyaluronic acid motecules per molecule of poiyamine. in another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic actd and a poiyamine comprises or consists often hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of poiyamine. Derivatives of a hyaluronic acid and a combination of a diamine and a poiyamine comprise or consist of two hyaluronic acid motecules per molecule of diamine and two or more hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of poiyamine. In a preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid anά a combination of a diamine and a poiyamine comprises or consists of two hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of ύmmlne and at least two hyaluronic acid molecules p&r molecule of poiyamine. In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a combination of a diamine and a pofyamine comprises or consists of two hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of diamine and at least three hyaluronic add molecules per molecule of poiyamine. In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a combination of a diamine and a poiyamine comprises or consists of two hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of diamine and at least four hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of poiyamine, Jn another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a combination of a diamine and a polyamine comprises or consists of two hyaluronic acid moiecuies per molecule of diamine and at feast five hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of poiyamine. In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic add and a combination of a diamine and a poiyarπiπe comprises or consists of Uio hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of diamine and at least six hyaluronic add molecuies per moiecuie of polyamine. In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a combination of a diamine and a polyamine comprises or consists of two hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of diamine and at least seven hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of polyamine, In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic add and a combination of a diamine and a polyamine comprises or consists of two hyaluronic acid molecuies per moϊecuie of diamine and at least eight hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of poiyarnine. In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a combination of a diamine and a poiyamϊne comprises or consists of two hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of diamine and at least nine hyaluronic acid molecuJes per molecule of poiyamine. in another preferred aspect, a derivative of s hyaluronic acid and a combination of a diamine and a poiyamine comprises or consists of two hyaluronic add molecules per molecule of diamine mά at least ten hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of polyamine.

(n another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acfd and a combination of a diamine and a polyamine comprises or consists of two hyaluronic acid moiecuies per molecule of diamine and two hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of pαlyamine. in another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a combination of a diamine and a polyamine comprises or consists of two hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of diamine and three hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of polyamine, In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a combination of a diamine anύ a polyamine comprises or consists of Wo hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of diamine and four hyaluronic acid molecules p^t molecule of polyamine. Jn another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a combination of a diamine and a polyamine comprises or consists of two hyaluronic add molecules p&r molecule of diamine and five hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of polyamine. In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a combination of a diamine and a pαfyamine comprises or consists of two hyaluronic acid molecules p&r molecule of diamine and six hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of polyamine. In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a combination of a diamine anύ a polyamine comprises or consists of two hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of diamine and seven hyaluronic acid moiecuies per molecule of polyamine. In another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a combination of a diamine anύ a polyamine comprises or consists of two hyaluronic acid molecules per moiecule of diamine and eight hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of polyamine, !π another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a combination of a diamine and a polyamine comprises or consists of Wo hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of diamine and nine hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of polyamine. in another preferred aspect, a derivative of a hyaluronic acid and a combination of a diamine and a polyamine comprises or consists of two hyaluronic acid molecules p&r molecule of diamine and ten hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of potyamsne.

The hyaluronic acid derivatives of the present invention possess several improved properties not associated with natural hyaluronic add. These improved properties include viscoeiasttc, mechanical, stability, and/or matrix/carrier properties.

The methods of the present Invention can be used to convert a Bacfflits- produced hyaluronic acid of 0.7-2 MDa into a hyaluronic acid product of 1.4-4 MDa, which is more desirabie for various applications. See, for example. Wobig øt a/., 1999, Cfm Then 21: 1549-1562, Armstrong et a/,_v 1997, Apph^'ed and Environm&πtal Microbiology 63; 2759-2764; Goa and Beπfteid, 1994, Drags 47: 536-566; Swann and Kuo, 1991, Hyaluronic acid, p. 2β6~3G5_: in D. Byrom <ed.), BiomatGά&is—novei m&tβri&ls from biological sourvβs, Stockton Press, New York, NY. The methods of the present invention can afso be used to tailor a hyaluronic add to a specific molecular weight. For example, with a diamine, an elongated hyaluronic add can double the molecular weight of the starting materia!, while with a poiyamine, ®,g., a triamine, a hyaluronic add derivative can triple the molecular weight of the starting material.

A hyaluronic acid derivative of the present invention can be in the form of a sail such sodium, potassium, ammonium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, or cobalt. A hyaluronic acid derivative of the present invention or sait thereof can be crosslinked using reagents and methods known in the art. For example, crossimking can be prepared with a polyfunctional epoxy compound as disclosed in EP 0 161 887 B1. Total or partial crosslinked esters can be prepared with an aliphatic alcohol, and salts of such partial esters with inorganic or organic bases, are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,957,744. Other ways of cross-linking are disclosed in U.S. Patent Hos. 5,616,563, 5,652,347, and 5,874,417. in a preferred aspect, a hyaluronic acid derivative of the present invention or salt thereof Js preferably crosslinked with boric add. In another preferred aspect, a crossϊinked hyaluronic acid derivative comprises borate esters.

Compositions The present invention also relates to compositions comprising a hyaluronic acid derivative of the present invention.

The compositions comprising a hyaluronic add derivative may further comprise an inactive components), an active component(s), or a combination of an inactive components) and an active components). The hyaluronic acid derivative may be used as a carrier for the active components).

The active component is preferably s pharmacologically active agent. Non- limiting examples of a pharmacologically active agent which may be used in the present invention include, but is not limited to. a protein and/or a peptide drug, such as, human growth hormone, bovine growth hormone, porcine growth hormone, growth homome releasing hormone/peptide. granulocyte-colony stimulating factor, granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor, macrophage-cσlony stimulating factor, erythropoietin, bone morphogenic protein, interferon or derivative thereof, insulin or derivative thereof, atriopepttn-lli, monoclonal antibody, tumor necrosis factor, macrophage activating factor, inferleuKin, tumor degenerating factor, insulin-like growth factor, epidermal growth factor, tissue plasminogen activator, Factor VII, Factor ViH, and urokinase.

Ths macttve component is preferably a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. Any pharmaceutically acceptable carrier known in the art may be used. The compositions of the present invention may further comprise a water-soluble exdptent A water-solubie excipiertt may be included for the purpose of stabilizing the active ingredients). The excipient may include a protein, e.g., albumin or gelatin; &n amino add. &.g., glycine, alanine, glutamic add, arginine, or lysine, or a salt thereof; carbohydrate, e.g., glucose, lactose, jc/lose, galactose, fructose, maltose, saccharose, dextran. mannitol. sorbitol, trehalose, or chondroitin sulphate; sn inorgamc salt, e.g., phosphate; a surfactant, e.g., TWEEN® (ICi), polyethylene glycol, or a mixture thereof. The excipient or stabilizer may be used in an amount ranging from 0,001 to 99% by weight of the product.

In a preferred aspect, a composition of the present invention comprises a hyaluronic acid derivative and an active component

In another preferred aspect, a composition of the present invention comprises a hyaluronic acid derivative and BΠ inactive component

In another preferred aspect, a composition of the present invention comprises a hyaluronic acid derivative, an active component, and an inactive component. fn another preferred aspect, a composition of the present fnvertfion comprises an effective amount of a hyaluronic acid derivative and a pharm aceuticaiiy acceptable carrier, excipient or diluent In another preferred aspect, a pharmaceutical composition comprises an effective amount of a hyaluronic acid derivative as a vehicle and & pharmacologically active agent.

In a preferred aspect, the exctpsent or diluent is a water-soluble excipierϋ. in a more preferred aspect, the excipient or diluent is factose.

Articles

The present invention aisα relates to articles and materials comprising a hyaluronic acid derivative of the present invention or a composition thereof, e.g., a cosmetic article or a sanitary article (e.g., a medical article or a surgical article).

In a preferred aspect, a cosmetic article comprises as an active ingredient an effective amount of a hyaluronic acid derivative of the present invention or a composition thereof.

In another preferred aspect, a sanitary article comprises a hyaluronic acid derivative of the present invention or a composition thereof, in a more preferred aspect, the sanitary article is selected from the group consisting of a diaper, a sanitary towel, a surgical sponge, a wound healing sponge, or a part comprised in a band aid or other wound dressing material.

The present invention also relates to a medicament capsule, comprising a hyaluronic acid derivative of the present invention or a composition thereof. It wiii toe understood that the term "medicament capsule" encompasses a microcapsule, nanocapsuie, microsphere, or nanosphere.

Uses A hyaluronic acid derivative of the present invention or a salt thereof may be employed in a wide range of current &nύ developing applications within cosmetics, ophthalmology, rheumatology, drug and gene delivery, wound healing, and tissue engineering.

A hyaluronic acid derivative of ih& pmsύni invention or a salt thereof can be used, for example, in the treatment of osteoarthritis, cancer, ophtaJmic conditions, angiogenesis, hair loss or baldness, wounds, or dry skin.

A hyaluronic add derivative of the present invention or a salt thereof may afso be used, for example, for performing dermal or transdermal administration of a pharmacologically active agent, σr dermal administration of a cosmetic.

The present invention is further described by the following examples which should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention, Examples

Chemicals used as buffers and substrates were commercial products of at least reagent grade.

Solutions

Mixtures of hyaluronic acid (sodtum sali) of 0.22 MDa, 0.69 MIDa, and 0.81 MDa

(medical grade, LifsCore Biomedical, Inc., Chaska, MN, USA) were prepared by mixing 2O g, 10 Q, and 5 g_r respectively, in 1.0 liter of ρjass-disiilied water with reducing end concentrations of approximately 89-91 μM, approximately 17 μM, and approximately 8.2 μM, respectively. The molecular weight provided by the manufacturer was used to calculate the concentration of reducing ends, which are equal to the molarity of the hyaluronic acid, assuming that each hyaluronic acid molecule is linear and had only one reducing end.

Pαfy-L-lystne (potyK) stock solution (0.5 miVS) was mad© by dissolving 8.8 mg (DP 401-453, MW 84-95 kDa, Sigma Chemical Co., St- Louis, MO, USA) in 0.2 mi of glass-distilled water.

Buffer stock solution was made by mixing 41.6 μ\ of 10X PBS (phosphate buffered saline composed per liter of 80 g of NaCK 2.0 g of KCi, 14.4 g of Na₂HPO* and 2.4 g of KH₂PO₄), 4.8 μi of 0.1 M sodium borate pH 9.5, 46.4 rng of sodium chloride, and 124.8 μi of giass-distHied water.

Sodium cyaπoborohydnde (NaCHBH_?) stock solution (2 M) was made just before use by dissolving 17.9 mg of sodium cyanoborohydride (95% purity, Aidrich Chemical Co., inc., Milwaukee, Wi₁ USA) in 135.5 μt of gSass-distSfiecS water.

Example 1 : Derealization of hyaluronic acid with poJylysine

A mixture of 200 μ! of the 0.22 MDa hyaluronic add, 22.3 μi of buffer stock solution to adjust the pH to approximately 8.5 with a final sodium chloride concentration of approximately 0.5 M, and 2 μl of poly-L-tysine stock solution with a final concentration of approximately 5 μM for po!y-L-[ystπe and approximately 3 mM for iysme unit was incubated in a 1.7-mϊ microcentrifuge tube at 50⁰C with mixing at 130 rpm. After β days (with ctasly pipet mixing), 12 μi of the HaCNBH₃ stock soiufϊon was added to a final concentration of approximately 0.1 M, followed by 3 days of incubation at 60⁰C with daily pspet mixing. Then approximately 1.5 mg of NaONBH₃ powder was added, corresponding to approximately 0.1 M fresh NaCNBH₃, foiJowed by 4 days of incubation at 50⁰C with daily ptpet rrtbdnα;. Hyaluronic acid of 0.59 and 0,81 MDa were also tested under the same conditions. Solutions in the absence of poly-L-iysine and HaCNBHa served as controls.

For smalt solutions, the capillarity of the solution was used to compare viscosity of the hyaluronic acid reaction products, A Pasteur glass pϊpet (diameter of 5 approximately 1 mm) was immersed slightly below the surface of solution to suck in liquid. After 2 minutes, the stationary height (h) and the volume of risen liquid were measured in triplicate. Based on the equations below (Pelofsky, 1986, J. Cbem. Bag. Data 11 : 394-397), a larger viscosity { η) would lead to a lower h: h — 4σcosβ/(γd), wherefn σ is surface tension, β is contact angle, d is diameter, { 0 and γ is specific weight wherein the logarithm of <r is inversely proportional to viscosity.

For samples of larger volume, viscosity in cP was measured using a Coie Palmer 98936 rotational viscometer (Cole-Parmer instrument Company, Vemon HsIIs, IL, USA) according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Inverting the tubes containing th& hyaluronic acid reaction solutions showed that

15 the reactions with poly-L-ϋysϊne and NaCNBH₃ appeared more viscous (less fiuidic) than the control. Table 1 shows the liquid rising height (h) of the capillarity measurement. A detectable vbcosity increase was observed after hyaluronic add was reacted with poly-

L-lysine sou NaCNBHa, The extent of the viscosity increase followed the order of 0.22

MOa HA > 0.59 MDa MA > 0.81 MDa HA, consistent with the order of the concentration 0 of free reducing ends.

Table 1. Capillarity of hyaluronic acid solution with or without po!yK/NaCNBH₃ reaction,

HA 0.22 MDa, 20 g/L 0,59 MDa, 10 g/L 0.81 MOa , 5 g/L H₂

PolyK/HaCN8H₃ + - ÷ + - - h, mm 4.5 8.0 5.3 7.5 7.5 7.1 9.7 11

Viscøsϊfy, cP » 145 145* > S60 560* « 250 250* 1 * Measured separately in watsr by a rotational viscometer.

5 The observed change in viscosity indicated that the primary arπsnes in poSy-L- iysine reacted with the reducing end of hyaluronic acid. The reaction appeared to proceed more readily with hyaluronic add of a shorter length, which is Hkeiy attributable to more available reducing ends for a given hyaluronic acid concentration.

0 Example 2: Derlvat&atϊon of hyaluronic acid with poiylysine and/or 1,8- diammooctane

In the first experiment, three 0,2 ml solutions were prepared containing 20 g/l of 0.22 MDa hyaluronic actd, 0.5 M sodium chloride, 0.3 mM sodium borate, V& strength of PBS buffer stock solution, with a final pH of 8.6. To the first solution was added 6.6 rn&3 1 ^diarninooctetne (approximately 13 mM -NHg). To the second solution was added 0.58 μM poly-L-lysine (approximately 0.35 mM -NHs). To the third sαiution was added 14 μM poiy-L-lysiπe and 6.6 mM Iβ-dsamtnooctane (approximately 13 mM -NHs) a* well as 0.1 M NaCNBH₃. The solutions were incubated in 1,7-mf microcentrifuge tube at 45°C for 3 days with daily pipet mixing.

In the second experiment, four 0.2 mi solutions were prepared containing 5 g/l of 0.81 MDa hyaluronic acid, 0.5 M sodium chloride, 0.3 mlVf sodium borate, % strength of PBS buffer stock solution, with a final pH of 8.6, To the first solution was added 0,31 mM 1 ,8-dtaminooctane (approximately 0.6 mM -NHc), To the second solution was added 0.1 M NaCNBH₃. To the third solution was added 0.31 rnM 1..8~diaminooctøne (approximately 0.6 mM -NH₂) and 0.1 M NaCNBM₃. To the fourth solution was added 3.1 μM 1_>8~diamtnooctane {approximately 6 mM -NH₂) and 0,1 M NaCNBH₃. The solutions were incubated in 1.7~mt microcentrifuge tube at 45°C for S days with daily pipet mixing,

In the first experiment, inverting the reaction tubes showed that the reaction containing poly-L-iysine, 1 ,8-diaminoociane, and NaCNBH₃ was significantly more viscous than the other two reactions. In the second experiment, inverting the reaction tubes showed that the reaction containing 0.3 mlVI 1,8-diaminooctane and 0.1 M NaCNBH3 was more viscous than the other four reactions. The observed change in viscosity indicated that the primary amines in 1,8-diaminooctane reacted with the reducing end of hyaluronic acid.

The invention described and claimed herein is not to be limited in scope by the specific aspects herein disclosed, since these aspects are intended as illustrations of several aspects of the invention. Any equivalent aspects are intended to be within the scope of this invention, indeed, various modifications of the jnvention in addition to those shown and described herein will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description. Such modifications are aiso intended to fail within the scope of the appended ciaims. in the case of conflict, the present disclosure including definitions wit! control.

Various references are cited herein, the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference in their entireties.

Claims

ClaimsWhat is claimed is:

1. A method for preparing a derivative of a hyaluronic acid, comprising:

(a) mixing a liquid solution comprising the hyaluronic acid and a diamine, a potyamϊne, of a combination thereof at a pH suitable to form an Imine;

(b) reducing the imine to an amine with a reduciant at a øH suitable to produce the derivative of the hyaluronic acid; and (C) recovering the derivative of the hyaluronic add.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the diamine is selected from the group consisting of an aliphatic diamine, aromatic diamine, and heteroatomic diamine.

3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the diamine is 1 ,S-diaroinooctane.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the poiyamine ?$ selected from the group consisting of an aliphatic poiyarrύne, aromatic pαiyamine, and hβferoaiomic poiyamine.

S. The method of claim 1 , wherein the poiyamine is poiy-L-lysine.

6. The method of any of claims 1-3, wherein the hyaluronic acid and the diamine in step (a) are present in a moiar ratio of the hyaluronic acid to the diamine of at least about 2,5 to 1.

7. The method of any of claims 1. 4, and S₅ wherein the hyaluronic acid and the pofyamine in step (a) are present in a rrtotar ratio of the hyaluronic acid to the poiyamine of at ϊeast about 2.5 to 1 ,

8. The method of any of claims 1-5, wherein the hyaluronic acid and the combination of the diamine and the polyamϊne in step (a) are present in a molar ratio of the hyaluronic acid to the combination of the diamine and the polyamine of at least about 5 to 1.

9. The method of any of claims 1-8, wherein the pH of step (a) is maintained between about 4 to about B.

10. The method of any of claims 1-9, wherein the temperature of step (a) is maintained between about 0⁰C to about 100⁰C.

11. The method of any of claims 1-10, wherein the reduction is performed with a chemical reductant or by electrochemical reduction.

12. The method of any of claims 1-11. wherein the pH of step (b) is maintained between about 4 to about 10.

13. The method of any of claims 1-12, wherein the temperature of step (t>) is maintained between about O⁰C to about 100⁰C.

14. The method of any of claims 1-13, wherein the derivative of the hyaluronic acid is recovered by precipitation . f titration, chromatography, or evaporation,

15. The method of any of claims 1-14, wherein the derivative of the hyaluronic acid and the diamine comprises or consists of two hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of diamine.

16. The method of any of claims 1-14, wherein the derivative of the hyaluronic add and the poiyamine comprises or consists of at least two hyaluronic acid molecules per moiecuSe of poiyamine.

17. The method of any of claims 1-14, wherein the derivative of the hyaluronic acid and the combination of the diamine and the poiyamine comprises or consists of two hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of diamine and at least two hyaluronic acid molecules per molecule of poiyamine.

18. An isolated derivative of a hyaluronic acid, comprising the hyaluronic acid md a diamine, a polyamine, or a combination thereof.

19. The isolated derivative of a hyaluronic acid of claim 18, wherein the diamine is selected from the group consisting of an aliphatic diamine, aromatic diamine, and heieroatoroic diamine.

20. The isolated derivative of a hyaluronic acid of claim 18, wherein the diamine is 1 , 8-dϊam inooctane.

21. The isolated derivative of a hyaluronic acid of claim 18, wherein the polyamine is selected from the group consisting of an aliphatic poiyamine, aromatic polyamine, and heieroatomic polyamine.

5

22. The isolated derivative of a hyaluronic acid of daim 18, wherein the polyamine 5s poly~L-tysϊne.

23. The isolated derivative of a hyaluronic acid of claim 18, wherein the derivative of 10 the hyaluronic acid and the diamine comprises or consists of two hyaluronic acid rnoϊecuies per molecule of diamine.

24. The isolated derivative of a hyaluronic acϊd of claim 18, wherein the derivative of the hyaluronic acid and the polyarmne comprises or consists of at least two hyaiuronic ϊ 5 acid molecules per molecule of poϊyamine.

25. The isolated derivative of a hyaluronic acid of claim 18, wherein the derivative of the hyaiuronic acid and the combination of the diamine and the pølyamine comprises or consists of two hyaluronic acid molecules per moieeute of diamine and at least two

20 hyaiuronic acid molecules per molecule of polyamine.

26. A composition comprising the hyaluronic acid derivative of any of claims 18-25 and an inactive components), an active components), or a combination of an inactive components) and an active components)

25

27. The composition of daim 26, wherein the active component is a pharmacologically active agent.

28. The composition of claim 26 or 27, which further comprises a water-soluble 30 excipient

29. A cosmetic article comprising a hyaiuronic acid derivative of any of claims 18-25 or a composition thereof.

35 30. A sanitary article comprising a hyaluronic acid derivative of any of claims 18-25 or a composition thereof.

31. The sanitary article of ciaim 30, wherein the article is selected from the group consisting of a diaper, a sanitary towef, a surgical sponge, a wound heaiing sponge, and a part comprised in a band aid or other wound dressing materia).

32. A medicament capsuie, comprising a hyaluronic add derivative of any of daims 18-25 or a composition thereof.