Merck, 31392-50G, Dextran from Leuconostoc spp.

Dextran, a biodegradable bacterial exopolysaccharide, is a member of the polysaccharide family predominantly composed of glucose units linked through α-(1→6) bonds in the main chain, often with α-(1→2), α-(1→3), and α-(1→4) branching. This versatile compound is typically derived from lactic acid bacteria like Leuconostoc, Lactobacillus, Streptococcus, Weissella, and Pediococcus, presenting a molecular weight range from 1,000 to 40,000,000 daltons (Da). The specific structure of dextran varies depending on the microbial strain responsible for its production. Dextran exhibits solubility in water and in few organic solvents and can be chemically modified to create diverse structures such as spheres, tubes, and 3D networks. This adaptability allows dextran to be blended with bioactive agents or hydrophobic polymers for various applications. With its remarkable water solubility, biocompatibility, and non-toxic properties, dextran serves as a valuable molecular scaffold, solute stabilizer, and cryoprotectant in cell culture and bioprocessing. These attributes make dextrans essential in a wide array of biomedical fields, including cell culture, drug delivery, nanomedicine, and various applications within the realm of biochemical research.