A basic derivative of dextran and its interaction with serum albumin

Abstract

The preparation of dextran derivatives having an electropositive charge as opposed to the electronegative charge of dextran sulfates is described. Some preliminary experiments on their interaction with proteins and cells are reported. The effect of pH, eletrolyte concentration and the relative proportions of reactants on the formation of insoluble complexes with human serum albumin were investigated. The optimum proportion of albumin to basic dextran lies within the range 0.256-0.41 by weight. At pH 8.6 without added electrolyte 85% of the albumin is precipitated. Suspensions of erythrocytes and bacteria were agglutinated by basic dextrans.