Glossary
A
Articular cartilage matrix
Definition: the intercellular substance of articular cartilage, composed of collagen fibers, proteoglycans, and water, which provides structural support and enables the cartilage to resist mechanical stress.
Context: the matrix is crucial for the functioning of joints, as it allows smooth movement and acts as a cushion between bones.
B
Bacterial Fermentation
Definition: A method of producing substances like hyaluronic acid using bacterial cultures.
Context: Ensures high purity and biocompatibility of the product.
Biofermentation
Definition: A biological process that uses microorganisms to produce substances like hyaluronic acid with high purity, low protein levels, and low endotoxins.
Context: Utilized to produce ultra-pure hyaluronic acid for medical applications.
Biomarkers
Definition: Biological molecules found in blood, urine, or tissues that indicate a condition or disease.
Context: Used in the diagnosis and monitoring of osteoarthritis.
Biomechanical Performance
Definition: The functional behavior of biological systems under mechanical forces.
Context: Improved by treatments like viscosupplementation to enhance joint function.
C
Chondroprotectors
Definition: Substances that protect cartilage from degradation and promote its repair.
Context: Used in the management of osteoarthritis.
D
Dalton
Definition: a unit of mass used to express atomic and molecular weights, equivalent to one-twelfth the mass of a carbon-12 atom, approximately 1.66 x 10^-24 grams.
Context: the molecular weight of hyaluronic acid and other biological molecules is often measured in Daltons.
E
Endotoxins
Definition: Toxins present inside bacterial cells released when the cells disintegrate.
Context: Low levels are critical for the safety of biofermentative hyaluronic acid.
F
G
Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs)
Definition: long unbranched polysaccharides consisting of repeating disaccharide units, which are highly hydrophilic and play a critical role in maintaining the structural integrity and hydration of connective tissues.
Context: GAGs, including hyaluronic acid, are essential components of the cartilage matrix, contributing to its viscoelastic properties.
H
Hyaluronic Acid (HA)
Definition: A polysaccharide found naturally in the human body, particularly in connective tissues, eyes, and skin, known for its viscoelastic properties.
Context: Used in viscosupplementation to improve joint function and relieve pain.
I
Immunogenic effects
Definition: the ability of a substance to provoke an immune response or the degree to which it can stimulate the immune system to recognize and respond to it.
Context: impurities in hyaluronic acid derived from animal sources can cause immunogenic effects, leading to inflammation or allergic reactions in patients.
J
K
Kellgren-Lawrence (K/L) Method
Definition: a grading system for the severity of osteoarthritis based on radiographic features.
Context: used to classify the extent of joint damage in OA.
L
M
Magnetotherapy
Definition: A therapeutic technique using magnetic fields to improve circulation and reduce pain.
Context: Another conservative treatment option for joint disorders.
N
NAHYCO® Hybrid Technology
Definition: An innovative production process that combines high and low molecular weight hyaluronic acids and sodium chondroitin through a thermal process.
Context: Results in hybrid formulations with improved efficacy and prolonged effect.
O
Osteoarthritis (OA)
Definition: A degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of joint cartilage and underlying bone.
Context: The most common cause of chronic joint pain and disability.
Osteophytes
Definition: Bone spurs or growths at the edges of joints.
Context: Indicative of joint degeneration in osteoarthritis.
P
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
Definition: A treatment involving the injection of a concentration of a patient’s own platelets to enhance healing of joints and tissues.
Context: Used in intra-articular therapies for joint pain and injury.
Polysaccharide
Definition: a carbohydrate molecule composed of long chains of monosaccharide units bonded together, which can serve structural functions or store energy.
Context: hyaluronic acid is a type of polysaccharide found in the extracellular matrix of connective tissues.
Primary Osteoarthritis
Definition: Osteoarthritis that develops due to a combination of risk factors like aging, obesity, and genetics.
Context: A natural progression of joint wear and tear.
Q
R
Rheology
Definition: The study of the flow and deformation of matter.
Context: Important in evaluating the properties of joint fluids and viscosupplementation products.
S
Secondary Osteoarthritis
Definition: Osteoarthritis resulting from specific causes such as trauma, surgery, or congenital joint abnormalities.
Context: Caused by identifiable events or conditions.
SHYALT Technology
Definition: A patented method used to produce ultra-pure biofermentative hyaluronic acid.
Context: Employed by IBSA for high-quality hyaluronic acid production.
Subchondral Cysts
Definition: Fluid-filled sacs within the subchondral bone near the cartilage.
Context: Typically found in advanced osteoarthritis.
Subchondral Sclerosis
Definition: An increase in bone density beneath the cartilage in joints.
Context: Commonly seen in osteoarthritis patients.
Synovial Fluid
Definition: A viscous fluid that lubricates joints and provides nutrients to cartilage.
Context: Essential for joint health and function.
Synovial Membrane
Definition: A layer of connective tissue that lines the cavities of joints, producing synovial fluid.
Context: Plays a crucial role in maintaining joint lubrication and health.
T
TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)
Definition: A pain relief therapy using low-voltage electrical currents.
Context: Applied in the conservative treatment of osteoarthritis.
U
Ultrafiltration
Definition: A purification process that removes small particles and impurities from solutions.
Context: Used in the production of high-purity hyaluronic acid.
V
Viscoelasticity
Definition: a property of materials that exhibit both viscous and elastic characteristics when undergoing deformation, allowing them to absorb and dissipate energy.
Context: the viscoelasticity of synovial fluid and the cartilage matrix is crucial for joint function, providing both lubrication and shock absorption during movement.
Viscosupplementation
Definition: A medical procedure involving the injection of hyaluronic acid into joints to restore the viscoelastic properties of synovial fluid.
Context: Commonly used in the treatment of osteoarthritis.
