The increase in hyaluronan synthesis is mediated by the induction of HAS3 expression, triggered by the activation of the JNK–c-Jun pathway due to cadmium exposure. Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert!
Hyaluronan is a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan with repeating disaccharide subunits of N-acetylglucosamine and glucuronic acid that forms a gel-like matrix with water in the SC space.