Dextran is a high molecular weight polymer of anhydroglucose. It is composed of approximately 95% alpha-D-(1-->6) linkages. The remaining a(1-->3) linkages account for the branching of dextran. Dextran has long and hydrophilic spacer arms that improves the performance of immobilized proteins acting on macromolecules.

Application Notes

Dextran solutions have been used as plasma extenders. Use of dextrans as long and hydrophilic spacer arms improves the performance of immobilized proteins acting on macromolecules. Dextran is a branched glucan composed of linear α(1→6) linked glucose units and α (1→3) link initiated branches. Dextran ranges in size from 10,000 to 150,000 Kd. Dextrans are used in many applications as volume extenders, stabilizers, matrix components, binding platforms, lubricants and physical structure components. Dextran is used in the development of new improved preservation solutions for organ transplantation. Dextran 40 may be used to determine cell tightness and flux parameters across cell layers. Dextran is used as a colloidal plasma volume extender. It used to enhance the precipitation and sensitivity of antibody-antigen complexes in immuno-diffusion applications. At lower concentrations, dextrans (MW ~10,000 to 40,000) have been used to inhibit platelet aggregation.

Usage Statement

Research Use Only (RUO). Unless otherwise stated in our catalog or other company documentation accompanying the product(s), our products are intended for research use only and are not to be used for any other purpose, which includes but is not limited to, unauthorized commercial uses, in vitro diagnostic uses, ex vivo or in vivo therapeutic uses or any type of consumption or application to humans or animals.

Key Applications

Protein Precipitation | Inhibition of Platelet Aggregation