Modulation of the intrinsic viscosity of hyaluronic acid formed by human 'fibroblasts' in vitro: The effects of hydrocortisone and colchicine

Data are presented to show that the intrinsic viscosity of hyaluronic acid elaborated into the culture medium supportinf human connective-tissue cells in vitro is modulated in a systematic manner by the cells. Intrinsic viscosity is reduced during rapid cell division and by hydrocortisone treatment. Conversely, the initial lag phase of culture growth and colchicine treatment are attended by formation of hyaluronic acid with a high intrinsic viscosity.