The Matrix Reloaded: Halozyme's Recombinant Enzyme Helps Injected Drugs Spread Faster

Abstract

Research in biology has often focused on what goes on inside cells and ignored the surrounding scaffolding. However, studies during the past decade show that this scaffolding, called the extracellular matrix, plays a major role in intercellular signaling, wound repair, cell differentiation, and other vital processes. Among the building blocks of the extracellular matrix is a complex sugar called hyaluronan, a viscous substance that acts as a barrier to fluid flow. This barrier is not invincible—a naturally occurring enzyme called hyaluronidase can break it down and make the tissue more permeable.