Dextran sulfate

Dextran sulfate (CAS 9042-14-2) is a sulfated polysaccharide; also referenced commercially as Dextran sulfate 500 for its high-molecular-weight form.

Where is Dextran sulfate used?

• Biochemical reagent, anticoagulant agent and cell culture supplement in research and manufacturing
• Molecular biology: accelerates nucleic acid hybridization
• Southern and Northern blotting protocols, reducing assay time and improving signal sensitivity
• Pharmaceutical manufacturing: reference compound in heparin-binding studies
• Preclinical research: model anticoagulant
• Lipid research and clinical diagnostics: precipitation assays isolate LDL cholesterol fractions from serum samples
• Biotechnology producers incorporate it into cell expansion media to support suspension culture stability.

Good to know: The 500 kDa grade is the standard for hybridization and cell culture use. The sodium salt form is the predominant commercial offering.

Commercial specifications

• Multiple molecular weight grades, most commonly 5,000, 40,000, and 500,000 Da
• Batches tested to USP or EP standards where applicable