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ARS Home » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #121474
Title: DEXTRAN

Author
item Leathers, Timothy

Submitted to: Biopolymers
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 9/23/2001
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Dextrans are homopolysaccharides of glucose that feature a substantial number of consecutive alpha-(1 to 6) linkages in their major chains. The exact structure of each type of dextran depends on its specific microbial strain of origin. Dextrans are produced by certain lactic acid bacteria, particularly strains of Streptococcus species and Leuconostoc mesenteroides. Dextrans from oral Streptococcus species are of clinical interest as components of dental plaque. Dextrans from L. mesenteroides are of commercial interest, primarily as specialty chemicals for clinical, pharmaceutical, research, and industrial uses.