Altered Hyaluronan Biosynthesis and Cancer Progression: an Immunological Perspective

Hyaluronan is a glycosaminglycan present in practically all tissues as an important component of the extracellular matrix. In spite of its apparent simple chemical structure, hyaluronan is a molecule with multiple and complex physiogical and pathological functions. Hyaluronan is able to regulate a variety of biological processes such as cellular growth, migration, differentiation and inflammation, not only in normal but also in cancer tissues. Besides, increasing evidence suggests hyaluronan as a potent modulator of immune responses which supports a potential role of this molecule in cancer immunotherapy.