dextran

dex·tran   (děk'strān', -strən)    n.  Any of a group of long-chain polymers of glucose with various molecular weights that are used in confections, in lacquers, as food additives, and as plasma volume expanders. [dextr(ose) + -an2.]

Main Entry: dex·tran
Pronunciation: 'dek-"stran, -str&n
Function: noun
: any of numerous biopolymers(C₆H₁₀O₅)_n of variable molecular weight that are produced especially by the fermentation of sucrose by bacteria of the genus Leuconostoc (asL. mesenteroides), are found in dental plaque, and are used especially after suitable chemical modification as blood plasma substitutes, as packing materials in chromatography, and aspharmaceutical agents —compare LEVAN

dextran dex·tran (děk'strān', -strən)
n.
Any of a group of long-chain polymers of glucose with various molecular weights that are used in isotonic sodium chloride solution for the treatment of shock, in distilled water for the relief of the edema of nephrosis, and as plasma volume expanders.