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Updated: Jul 19, 2026
08:39
Murine Colitis Modeling using Dextran Sulfate Sodium (DSS)
Published on: January 19, 2010
Dextran sulfate is poorly absorbed after oral administration.
K J Lorentsen1, C W Hendrix, J M Collins
1Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
Annals of Internal Medicine
|October 1, 1989
Summary
Dextran sulfate, an anti-HIV drug, shows very poor absorption in the body after oral administration. This suggests limited bioavailability when taken by mouth, impacting its potential therapeutic use.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Drug Absorption and Bioavailability
Background:
- Dextran sulfate is a synthetic heparin analogue with demonstrated in vitro anti-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) activity.
- Understanding its absorption is crucial for evaluating its therapeutic potential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the oral absorption of dextran sulfate in healthy volunteers.
- To compare oral versus intravenous administration of dextran sulfate.
Main Methods:
- An open-label, single-center study involving 18 healthy volunteers.
- Part 1: Bioavailability study with single oral (1800 mg) and intravenous (225 or 300 mg) doses.
- Part 2: Dose-response study of dextran sulfate and plasma lipolytic activity via intravenous infusion.
Main Results:
- Oral administration resulted in undetectable plasma dextran sulfate levels and minimal urinary recovery (<0.5%).
- Intravenous administration led to significant plasma concentrations, substantial urinary recovery (median 25%), and marked increases in plasma lipolytic activity and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT).
- Intravenous doses as low as 0.5 mg significantly increased plasma lipolytic activity, indicating high sensitivity to IV administration.
Conclusions:
- Dextran sulfate is very poorly absorbed following oral administration.
- The route of administration significantly impacts the bioavailability and pharmacokinetic profile of dextran sulfate.
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