Fluorescent Dextran Applications in Renal Intravital Microscopy

Abstract

Dextrans, which is a generic term used to describe a family of glucans, are branched polysaccharide molecules derived from lactic acid bacteria in the presence of sucrose. These complex branched glucans have various uses in the medical industry, including plasma expanders and anticoagulants, and have also been investigated for their utility in targeted and sustained delivery of drugs, proteins, enzymes, and imaging agents for renal applications. Simultaneous advances in renal intravital microscopy have brought several advantages over in vitro and ex vivo models by providing real-time assessments of dynamic processes at the cellular and subcellular levels. Such advances have been used to support regenerative medicine strategies. Consequently, this chapter aims to provide an overview of how fluorescent dextrans have supported renal gene and cell therapies and evolving tissue engineering techniques.