The Potential Role of Topically Applied Heparan Sulfate in the Treatment of Photodamage.

Heparan sulfate is an essential glycosaminoglycan that plays important roles in development, homeostasis, and disease. As a group, the glycosaminoglycans provide mechanical strength to skin, as they can absorb water and occupy the space between elastin fibers and collagen. Heparan sulfate is also a key participant in cell proliferation, cell migration, collagen fiber formation, basement membrane regeneration, granulation tissue formation, and cell adhesion associated with wound healing.