Dextran 70 (DX-70)

Dextran 70 is a complex, branched glucan polysaccharide with an average molecular weight of 70 kDa, synthesized via the fermentation of sucrose by Leuconostoc mesenteroides [DrugBank: DB09255]. It serves as a colloidal plasma volume expander, exerting oncotic pressure that draws interstitial fluid into the intravascular compartment to stabilize hemodynamics in patients with hypovolemic shock [StatPearls: NBK557554]. In addition to its volume-expanding properties, Dextran 70 modulates rheological properties by reducing erythrocyte aggregation and inhibiting platelet factor 3, which provides a prophylactic effect against venous thromboembolism [PubChem: CID 71306662]. It is not a biological target in the conventional sense (e.g., a protein receptor) but is a therapeutic molecule that acts through physical-chemical mechanisms. Key clinical challenges include the risk of severe anaphylactoid reactions and potential interference with cross-matching during blood transfusions [NIH: LiverTox].

Other names

MacrodexGentran 70Dextran 70,000Polyglucin

Dextran 70 increases plasma volume by drawing fluid from the interstitial space into the blood vessels through osmotic pressure [StatPearls: NBK557554]. It also coats vascular endothelium and platelets, reducing platelet aggregation and promoting fibrinolysis [DrugBank: DB09255].