Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) for colitis
by TdB Labs
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CAS Number: 9011-18-1
About 40 years ago, studies on dextran sulfate for inducing colitis in experimental animals had begun at Pharmacia, Uppsala. The Group in the Chemistry Department run by Tony de Belder, prepared dextran sulfates with different molecular weights and degrees of substitution; work which finally led to the choice of a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) with a molecular weight of approximately 40 kDa and sulfate content of 17-19% for studies on colitis in experimental animals (1). The DSS was administered orally in the drinking water at concentrations of 2-5%. In 1991, production was started on a small scale and made available through TdB Consultancy (now TdB Labs)
The DSS is supplied as the sodium salt and is stabilized by a small addition of phosphate salts. A certificate of analysis is supplied with each batch. The molecular weight range, sulfur content, moisture etc. are carefully controlled.
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Dosage recommendations
A concentration of 2-4% DSS in the drinking water is recommended for obtaining clinical symptoms in mice and variations will depend on the strain, ages, sex and liquid consumption. For rats, somewhat higher concentrations may be required, the recommended dosage is 3.5-5%. The dosage in all experimental animals should also be adjusted in accordance to the requirements of your study – a milder onset of colitis or a more aggressive response. Those wishing to use DSS must consider the purpose of the study and thereby first test a range of doses from 2.5 to 5 % DSS in the drinking water.
Structure
Dextran is a polysaccharide derived from the bacterium Leuconostoc mesenteroides B512F and consists of an α-D-(1 – 6) linear glucan with a low content (ca. 5%) of sidechains linked to the 3-carbon of glucose. DSS is a sulfated derivative of a dextran fraction with a mean molecular weight of 40 kDa. The degree of sulfatation of DSS lies between 16 to 20 %. This is a vital parameter in ensuring potency of the product.
Storage and Storage and stability
DSS is stable for more than 6 years when stored dry in well-sealed containers at ambient temperature
Solubility
DSS is freely soluble in water.
Applications
Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) is used to induce intestinal inflammation in experimental animals.
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Technical information
Specifications