Merck, 31388-500G, 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.