hyaluronidase

[ hahy-uh-loo-ron-i-deys, -deyz ]

noun

1. Biochemistry. a mucolytic enzyme found in the testes, in snake venom, and in hemolytic streptococci and certain other bacteria, that decreases the viscosity of the intercellular matrix by breaking down hyaluronic acid.
2. Pharmacology. a commercial form of this substance, used chiefly to promote the diffusion of intradermally injected drugs.

hyaluronidase

/ -ˌdeɪz; ˌhaɪəlʊˈrɒnɪˌdeɪs /

noun

1. an enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid, thus decreasing the viscosity of the medium containing the acid

Word History and Origins

Origin of hyaluronidase¹

1935–40; hyaluron(ic acid) ( def ) + -id- (by analogy with amidase, peptidase, etc.) + -ase

Word History and Origins

Origin of hyaluronidase¹

C20: hyalo- + Greek ouron urine + -id ³ + -ase

Example Sentences

After researching extensively, she found a specialist who was able to inject her with hyaluronidase — a family of enzymes that can break down hyaluronic acid, the ingredient used in most lip fillers.

From Fox News

In complaints and incident reports, however, people who used Expression describe serious problems that did not resolve with hyaluronidase treatment.

From Forbes

This involved dissolving the filler with the help of hyaluronidase, an enzyme, and treating the lips with a fractional radio-frequency device.

From New York Times

Reversibility of the implant volume was achieved with hyaluronidase injection.

From Science Magazine