sulfaminoheparosan sulfate

Sulfaminoheparosan sulfate (SAHS) is a semisynthetic glycosaminoglycan derived from the *Escherichia coli* K5 polysaccharide, which shares the same precursor structure as heparin and heparan sulfate. SAHS compounds are produced by chemical modification of the K5 polysaccharide to achieve specific degrees and distributions of sulfation, categorized into types A, B, and C. These molecules are primarily investigated for their antitumor and antimetastatic properties, particularly their ability to inhibit cancer cell invasion and lung colonization in melanoma models. The mechanism of action involves the inhibition of endoglycosidases such as heparanase, as well as interference with vascular growth factors (e.g., VEGF), adhesion molecules, and signaling proteins. While some SAHS variants (like SAHS-2 and SAHS-4) possess anticoagulant activity similar to heparin through interactions with antithrombin III and heparin cofactor II, others can be designed to retain antitumor efficacy while minimizing effects on the clotting system, offering a potential therapeutic advantage in oncology.

Other names

semisynthetic sulfaminoheparosan sulfateK5 polysaccharide derivativeK-5 polysaccharide derivativeK 5 polysaccharide derivative