Chondroitin-6-sulfate (C6S) (C6S)

Chondroitin-6-sulfate (C6S) is a sulfated glycosaminoglycan (GAG) composed of repeating disaccharide units of D-glucuronic acid and N-acetyl-D-galactosamine-6-sulfate. It is a major component of the extracellular matrix, particularly in cartilage, where it provides resistance to compression and maintains hydration (PubChem CID 24766). In the central nervous system, C6S is a key constituent of perineuronal nets and the glial scar, where it often acts as a potent inhibitor of axonal regeneration following injury (PubMed: 11951037). Therapeutically, C6S is widely used as a symptomatic slow-acting drug for osteoarthritis (SYSADOA) to support joint health and reduce inflammation (PubMed: 22895154). Research also focuses on the enzymatic degradation of C6S using chondroitinase ABC to promote functional recovery after spinal cord injuries by removing inhibitory barriers to plasticity (PubMed: 16107644).

Other names

Chondroitin sulfate CChondroitin sulfate 6-sulfateGalNAc6S6-O-sulfo-chondroitin

Acts as a structural component of cartilage and a signaling molecule in the extracellular matrix; therapeutic administration aims to restore cartilage integrity or inhibit inflammatory mediators, while enzymatic degradation removes inhibitory barriers to nerve repair.