Hyaluronan

H yaluronan (HA) matrix responds quickly to chang- ing conditions during atherogenesis and atheroprogression.Our evolving understanding of HA's specific functions at the interface of inflammatory responses and phenotypic control of mesenchymal cells in the vessel wall points to its importance in inflammation and atherosclerosis.Additionally, the enzymes that mediate HA biosynthesis and degradation are potential target molecules for novel therapies, as are signal-transducing HA receptors: deciphering the HA matrix, thus, has significant translational possibilities.