Blood Volume Expander:
Dextran solutions can be administered intravenously to increase blood volume, making it useful in situations such as hypovolemia (low blood volume) or shock.
Plasma Volume Expander:
Dextran can help expand plasma volume, which is beneficial in cases of plasma loss due to burns or surgery.
Drug Delivery:
Dextran can be conjugated with drugs to improve their solubility, stability, and targeting, facilitating controlled release and enhancing therapeutic efficacy.
Ophthalmic Applications:
Dextran is used in ophthalmic solutions to lubricate and hydrate the eyes, particularly in the form of eye drops or contact lens solutions.
Tissue Engineering:
Dextran hydrogels are used in tissue engineering applications due to their biocompatibility and ability to mimic the extracellular matrix, providing a scaffold for cell growth and tissue regeneration.