Hyaluronan Synthesis and Myogenesis: A requirement for hyaluronan synthesis during myogenic differentiation independent of pericullular matrix formation

Background
The role endogenously synthesized hyaluronan plays in myogenesis is not yet known.

Results
Hyaluronan synthase genes were expressed during skeletal muscle growth and regeneration; inhibiting these synthases prevents myoblast differentiation and fusion.

Conclusion
Endogenous hyaluronan synthesis is required for myogenic differentiation.

Significance
The necessity for hyaluronan in myogenesis has implications when considering promoting muscle growth or regeneration.