Chondroitin sulfate (CS) was first
described in 1854 by Fisher and Boedker. The complete
identification of the glycopeptidelinkage in the overall
carbohydrate-protein was published in 1966.
Chondoritin sulfates form part
of the natural ocurring proteoglycans (PG) which are usually
constituted by a protein core covalently linked to large
linear heteropolysaccharide chains (GAG).
The basic units are formed by N-acetyl-galactosamine
and glucuronic acid. There is a ß (1-4) linkage
between the disaccharide units and a ß
(1-3) linkage between the uronic acid and the galactosamine.
There are two main types of chondroitin sulfate structures,
which depend on the position of the sulfate group in the
Galactosamine: CSA (in the 4 position) and CSC (in the
6 position). Naturally occurring chondroitin sulfate has
a molecular weight of 50000 to 100000 Da. After the extraction
process, its molecular weight is 10000 to 40000 Da.
CTFA name: Sodium hyaluronate
CAS number: 9067-32-7
SOURCES
AND MANUFACTURING PROCESS
Chondroitin sulfate is mainly obtained
from bovine, porcine and shark cartilage. The
metod involves a proteolytic treatment, followed
by a specific separation and purification. Special
processes are implemented in order to eliminate
any kind of viruses in the final product.
APPLICATION
AND FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES
Chondroitin sulfate is widely distributed
in animal tissues and possibly plays an important
role in different types of metabolic reactions
as well as being a protective agent of joints,
internal wall of blood vessels, skin, bones, etc.
In cartilage, glycosaminoglycans have a protective
function, CS stabilizes fibrous and cellular
elements of the connective tissue and, at the
same time, lubricates and protects the membranes.
CS has been studied as a product in chondroprotection
and cartilage repair, and also in the fields of
dermatology, cosmetics, coronary heart diseases,
angiogenesis, anti-arteriosclerosis, anti-thrombosis,
wound healing, connective tissue regeneration,
ophtalmology, traumatisms, inhibition of stone
formation, periodonitis, adhesion prevention,
radiology, etc.
CS stops the degradation providing the
cartilage with resistance and elasticity, and
slows cartilage breakdown by protecting it from
destructive enzymes. It has both pain relieving
and regenerating activities in the cartilage.
The moisturizing and hydrating properties of the
product due to its high hygroscopicity help to
maintain the elasticity of the cutaneous tissue.
CS has a strong influence in the healing
of wounds and ulcers, reducing inflammation of
the ulceroperipherical tissue.
APPLICATIONS
Chondroprotection:
Rheumatology (Osteoarthritis), traumatology,
sports medicine and health food suplement
Dermatology and cosmetics
Ophthalmology
Veterinary
Carrier
PRESENTATION
Chondroitin sulfate is available in bulk
amounts.
It is presented in solid powder form.
PACKAGING
AND STORAGE
Chondroitin sulfate should be stored in
a closed container, at room temperature and in
a dry place.
(1-3) linkage between the uronic acid and the galactosamine.
There are two main types of chondroitin sulfate structures,
which depend on the position of the sulfate group in the
Galactosamine: CSA (in the 4 position) and CSC (in the
6 position). Naturally occurring chondroitin sulfate has
a molecular weight of 50000 to 100000 Da. After the extraction
process, its molecular weight is 10000 to 40000 Da.