Dextran vs. Polysaccharide

Attribute	Dextran	Polysaccharide
Chemical Structure	Linear alpha-1,6-glucan with some alpha-1,3 linkages	Long chain of monosaccharide units linked by glycosidic bonds
Source	Produced by certain bacteria	Found in plants, algae, and some bacteria
Function	Used in pharmaceuticals and as a blood volume expander	Energy storage, structural support, and cell recognition
Solubility	Highly soluble in water	Varies depending on the specific polysaccharide

Introduction

Dextran and polysaccharide are two types of complex carbohydrates that play important roles in various biological processes. While they both belong to the same category of biomolecules, they have distinct attributes that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the differences and similarities between dextran and polysaccharide in terms of their structure, function, sources, and applications.

Structure

Dextran is a linear or branched polymer of glucose units linked together by α-1,6 glycosidic bonds. It can also contain α-1,3 and α-1,4 linkages, depending on the source and method of production. On the other hand, polysaccharide is a broad term that refers to any polymer made up of multiple sugar units. It can be composed of various monosaccharides such as glucose, fructose, and galactose, linked together by different types of glycosidic bonds.

Function

Dextran is known for its ability to increase the viscosity of solutions, making it useful in various industrial applications such as food processing and pharmaceuticals. It is also used as a blood plasma expander due to its ability to increase blood volume. Polysaccharides, on the other hand, serve a wide range of functions in living organisms. They can act as energy storage molecules, structural components of cell walls, and signaling molecules in cellular communication.

Sources

Dextran is produced by certain bacteria, such as Leuconostoc mesenteroides and Streptococcus mutans, through the fermentation of sucrose. It can also be extracted from sources like sugar beet and corn. Polysaccharides, on the other hand, are found in a variety of natural sources, including plants, algae, fungi, and bacteria. Common examples of polysaccharides include starch, cellulose, and glycogen.

Applications

Due to its unique properties, dextran is used in a wide range of applications. It is commonly used as a stabilizer and thickening agent in food products, as well as a component in drug delivery systems. Polysaccharides, on the other hand, have diverse applications in various industries. For example, cellulose is used in the production of paper and textiles, while chitin is used in the manufacturing of biodegradable plastics.

Conclusion

In conclusion, dextran and polysaccharide are two important types of complex carbohydrates with distinct characteristics. While dextran is known for its viscosity-increasing properties and applications in the medical and food industries, polysaccharides have diverse functions in living organisms and industrial processes. Understanding the differences and similarities between these two biomolecules is essential for their effective utilization in various fields.