Dextran from Leuconostoc spp.

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. Low molecular weight dextrans are often preferred versus high molecular weight dextrans due to their different viscosities, aggregation and permeation properties.

Dextran is an extracellular bacterial polymer of D-glucopyranose. It mostly comprises α-(1→6) linkage in the main chain and a variable number of α-(1→2), α-(1→3), α-(1→4) branched linkages.

Dextran from Leuconostoc spp. has been used:

• for the glycation of caseinate to investigate the influence of an increase in carbohydrate chain length compared to glucose
• for the mass calibration of matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectroscopy (MALDI-TOF) for the characterization of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs)
• as a non-toxic stabilizer to assess the in vivo administration of tungsten trioxide(WO3) nanoparticles

Dextran is used as a drug, particularly as a blood plasma volume expander. It is also useful as an adjuvant, emulsifier, carrier, and stabilizer in the food, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries. Sephadex is a cross-linked dextran that is commonly used for the separation and purification of protein. In the food industry, dextran is applicable as a thickener for jam and ice cream. It hinders the crystallization of sugar and augments moisture retention. This preserves the flavor and appearance of several food items.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of our extensive range of Dextrans for your research, we encourage you to visit our Carbohydrates Category page.