Open AccessSulodexide: A Renewed Interest in This Glycosaminoglycan
Author(s) -
Lauver D. Adam,
Lucchesi Benedict R.
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
cardiovascular drug reviews
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1527-3466
pISSN - 0897-5957
DOI - 10.1111/j.1527-3466.2006.00214.x
Subject(s) - glycosaminoglycan , dermatan sulfate , heparin , heparan sulfate , extracellular matrix , chemistry , biochemistry , t plasminogen activator , tissue plasminogen activator , medicine , endocrinology , pharmacology
Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are the most abundant group of heteropolysaccharides found in the body. These long unbranched molecules contain a repeating disaccharide unit. GAGs are located primarily in the extracellular matrix or on the surface of cells. These molecules serve as lubricants in the joints while at the same time providing structural rigidity to cells. Sulodexide is a highly purified glycosaminoglycan composed of a fast mobility heparin fraction as well as dermatan sulfate. Sulodexide differs from other glycosaminoglycans, like heparin, by having a longer half‐life and a reduced effect on systemic clotting and bleeding. In addition, sulodexide demonstrates a lipolytic activity that is increased in comparison to heparin. Oral administration of sulodexide results in the release of tissue plasminogen activator and an increase in fibrinolytic activities. An increasing body of research has demonstrated the safety and efficacy of sulodexide in a wide range of vascular pathologies.