Dextran

Dextran is a biotechnologically produced high molecular weight, highly branched polysaccharide. The polymers consist exclusively of glucose units. The glycosidic bonding of the glucose molecules is effected via 1,6-, 1,4- or 1,3-, more rarely also via 1,2-glycosidic linkages.

In nature, dextranes serve yeasts and bacteria as reserve substances. Dextranes are used in cosmetic preparations as binding agents (binds cosmetic preparations containing powder and powder) and viscosity regulators (increases or decreases the viscosity of cosmetic products).

Medically, dextranes are used as blood plasma substitutes. Low molecular weight dextranes act as antiplatelet agents.