dextran sulfate

Dextran sulfate is a sulfated polysaccharide compound (molecular weight approximately 8,000 Daltons) that was investigated by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) in the late 1980s as an experimental antiviral agent for HIV infection. It acts as an entry inhibitor by binding to the HIV envelope glycoprotein gp120 and interfering with its interaction with the host CD4 receptor, thereby blocking viral attachment to target cells. While dextran sulfate demonstrated potent anti-HIV activity in vitro, clinical trials evaluating oral administration (UA001) revealed poor bioavailability and a lack of significant antiretroviral effects in vivo. High-dose intravenous administration was also explored but was associated with toxicities such as thrombocytopenia. The drug was also studied for potential synergistic effects when combined with zidovudine (AZT).

Brand names

Uscard

Other names

DSdextran sulfate sodiumsulfated dextran