Research.
Every peer-reviewed study on fascia in one place — graded for strength of evidence, summarised in plain language for clinicians, researchers, and curious readers.
We grade studies from A to 1A+++ using the Fascia Research Database rubric — 1A+++ is the strongest.
Researchers behind the studiesPlantar fascia anatomy and its relationship with Achilles tendon and paratenon
This study investigated the detailed anatomy of the plantar fascia and its connection to the Achilles tendon. Dissections of human cadavers revealed that the fascia is more closely linked to the paratenon (the tendon's…
Hyaluronan differently modulates TLR-4 and the inflammatory response in mouse chondrocytes
This study on mouse cartilage cells investigated how different sizes of hyaluronan (HA) affect inflammation. Researchers found that small HA fragments increased the production of several inflammatory markers. In contras…
Hyaluronan injection in murine osteoarthritis prevents TGFbeta 1-induced synovial neovascularization and fibrosis and maintains articular cartilage integrity by a CD44-dependent mechanism
In this mouse study, researchers investigated how hyaluronan (HA) injections might protect joints in osteoarthritis. They found that even though the injected HA was cleared from the knee joint in under two hours, a sing…
A RHAMM Mimetic Peptide Blocks Hyaluronan Signaling and Reduces Inflammation and Fibrogenesis in Excisional Skin Wounds
In this animal study, researchers investigated how to reduce scarring during skin wound healing. They developed a peptide, P15-1, designed to interfere with signals from fragmented hyaluronan, a molecule involved in inf…
Severe lung fibrosis requires an invasive fibroblast phenotype regulated by hyaluronan and CD44
This study investigated the mechanisms behind severe lung fibrosis, a condition where excessive connective tissue builds up in the lungs. Using a mouse model, researchers found that fibroblasts, a type of connective tis…
Hyaluronan: From Extracellular Glue to Pericellular Cue
Hyaluronan is traditionally seen as a biological 'goo' that lubricates joints and holds connective tissues together. This review describes how hyaluronan also functions as an important signaling molecule, or cue, in the…
Fascia redefined: anatomical features and technical relevance in fascial flap surgery
Fascia has traditionally been seen as a passive wrapping, but this review redefines it as a dynamic tissue with its own complex blood supply and innervation. The authors detail the specific characteristics of different…
The effect of molecular weight on hyaluronan’s cartilage boundary lubricating ability e alone and in combination with proteoglycan 4
This study investigated the lubricating ability of hyaluronan (HA) in articular cartilage, focusing on how its molecular weight affects function. Researchers found that higher molecular weight hyaluronan was more effect…
High and Low Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid Differentially Regulate Human Fibrocyte Differentiation
Following tissue injury, immune cells called monocytes can differentiate into fibrocytes, a cell type involved in healing and fibrosis. This study investigated how different sizes of hyaluronic acid (HA) affect this pro…
Hyaluronan as an Immune Regulator in Human Diseases
This 2011 narrative review explores the role of hyaluronan (HA) in the immune system. While intact HA is a normal part of the extracellular matrix, fragments of HA produced during tissue injury can act as signals. These…
Structural Behavior of Highly Concentrated Hyaluronan
Researchers investigated the behavior of highly concentrated hyaluronan (HA) in a physiological saline solution. They found that HA molecules can organize into stable, larger "superstructures." When heated, the fluid's…
Differential effects of hyaluronan and its fragments on fibroblasts: Relation to wound healing
This lab study investigated how hyaluronan (HA) of different molecular sizes affects human fibroblast cells, which are key to wound healing. Researchers exposed fibroblasts to native HA and two smaller fragments. All th…