HYAL1 polyclonal antibody

Hyaluronidases (HAases or HYALs) are a family of lysosomal enzymes that are crucial for the spread of bacterial infections and of toxins present in a variety of venoms. HYALs may also be involved in the progression of cancer. In humans, six HYAL proteins have been identified. Most HYAL proteins degrade hyaluronic acid (HA), which is present in body fluids, tissues and the extracellular matrix of vertebrate tissues. HA keeps tissues hydrated, maintains osmotic balance and promotes cell proliferation, differentiation and metastasis. HA is also an important structural component of cartilage and other tissues and acts as a lubricant in joints. HYAL1 is a 435 amino acid hyaluronidase that is is expressed in multiple tissues, specifically in the serum, and is not expressed in brain. HYAL1 degrades HA into into fragments that stimulate angiogenesis. Expression of HYAL1 in various cancer cells may have a role in the regulation of tumor growth and progression.