Dermatan sulfate is a natural glycosaminoglycan found in the skin, blood vessels, tendons, muscle fibers, and connective tissue in general. It is part of the structure of the lungs and a component of the body’s mucous membranes. It is closely related to heparin or chondroitin sulfate.
What is dermatan sulfate
It is a glycosaminoglycan that forms the extracellular matrix of humans and vertebrate animals. It is part of the plasma membrane and intracellular granules of many cells in the body.
It plays an important role in the joints, cartilage composition, and the rest of the human body, forming the skin. It is commercially known as chondroitin sulfate B or chondroitin sulfate, although it is also commonly available under the name dermatan sulfate.
Its properties are related to blood coagulation and the formation of connective tissue, such as organs, mucous membranes, and tendons.
Contents
Composition of dermatan
It has a chemical structure formed by well-known molecules, helping you understand it by discovering what hyaluronic acid is used for and N-acetylgalactosamine-4-sulfate.
It also belongs to the so-called polysaccharides, molecules that make up the cell surface and protect against the biological environment, functioning as glue. This type of organic molecule is a fundamental part of many proteins that form the skin and cartilage in the joints, such as proteoglycans, which hydrate and activate the synthesis of collagen and hyaluronic acid.
The composition of dermatan sulfate includes uronic acid or iduronate and N-acetylgalactosamine, modified sugars that can associate with minerals in the body, such as magnesium, sodium, potassium, and calcium, thanks to its high viscosity.
Function
Various applications and uses have been identified, but the function of dermatan sulfate is to facilitate cell differentiation and migration. It also plays an important role in morphogenesis, which is the ability of living organisms to differentiate, grow, and develop.
Properties
- Skin regeneration.
- Antiviral properties.
- Antiparasitic properties.
- Anticancer properties.
- Anticoagulant or antithrombotic.
- Natural wound healing.
- Immune system booster.
Its power lies in its ability to promote cell growth. It can facilitate growth factors or inhibit them when present in small amounts.
Anticoagulant properties
Related to heparin cofactor II, it acts by inhibiting blood clotting, which is highly beneficial for people prone to thrombosis. Thrombosis forms blood clots and is potentially dangerous.
Natural wound healing
Being present in the skin and performing its function of stimulating cell growth, it acts as a skin regenerator and wound healer. When there is damage to the epidermis, dermatan sulfate revitalizes skin tissues, improving wound healing and repair. It also interacts with various proteins.
Immune system
Various studies indicate that glycosaminoglycans and related proteoglycans, including dermatan, enhance the body’s response to infections and pathogens. This sulfate protects and improves the response of T lymphocytes and all systems related to viral and bacterial health protection, acting as a natural barrier against infectious diseases.
Central nervous system
In the formation of brain structures, it works together with another proteoglycan called chondroitin sulfate to enable the healthy development of the brain.
This group of proteoglycans improves neuron growth in all stages of human life, from the embryo to old age. This means that the presence of dermatan and chondroitin is vital for brain development from conception to an individual’s death.
Cancer
There are indications that an excessive amount of dermatan sulfate in the body may be linked to tumor growth. Since its properties promote cell growth, an alteration in its structure could encourage the progression of various cancers.
These studies are still ongoing, and further research is needed to determine whether it is possible to modify the chains that interact with growth factors and cytokines.
Formula
Most people do not need to know the chemical structure or formula of dermatan sulfate. However, in some cases, it is necessary, either because a study is being conducted on this type of sulfated molecule or for other reasons. Regardless, the formulation is as follows:
- Dermatan sulfate formula: C14H21NO15S.
It can be used both for manufacturing dietary supplements to treat joint pain in obese individuals, the elderly, and athletes with cartilage wear, as well as a base for creams and products to reduce wrinkles and repair damaged skin.
Other names
- Chondroitin sulfate B.
- Chondroitin sulfate.
Commercial products
There are many drugs and dietary supplements that include dermatan or some type of glycosaminoglycan. These products are designed to improve joint regeneration and skin care. Some of them contain a rich blend of glucosamine and chondroitin, or instead of being sold as powder or tablets, they may be available as liquid ingredients for skin treatment and anti-aging in the form of Endocare proteoglycans with vitamin C. These types of products containing dermatan sulfate regenerate connective tissue and help improve epidermal tissue recovery.
