Chondroitin sulfate is a polysaccharide found in cartilage in the human body and is also an important ingredient for joint health. Its structure is more complex and is made ofD-aminogalactose (D-GLCNAC).withD-glucuronic acid (D-GLCA).Alternately joined, forming unbranched polysaccharide chains.
1. The basic structure of chondroitin sulfate.
The basic building blocks of chondroitin sulfate are passed by one D-aminogalactose (D-GLCNAC) and one D-glucuronic acid (D-GLCA).-1,3-glycosidic bondsconnected. These basic building blocks are connected continuously to form a long chain-like polysaccharide structure.
2. Sulfation.
The "sulfuric acid" in chondroitin sulfate's name refers to the degree of sulfation it has. In its natural state, the d-aminogalactose on the chondroitin sulfate polysaccharide chain is usually sulfated at the 4th or 6th position. The degree and location of sulfation can affect the biological activity and function of chondroitin sulfate.
3. Polysaccharide chain length.
The polysaccharide chain length of chondroitin sulfate can be estimated based on its molecular weight. In general, chondroitin sulfate has a molecular weight range of 10,000 to 50,000 daltons. The length of the polysaccharide chain and the degree of sulfation can affect the solubility and bioavailability of chondroitin sulfate in the physiological environment.
Overall, chondroitin sulfate is structured by alternating links of D-aminogalactose and D-glucuronic acid to form unbranched polysaccharide chains, where D-aminogalactose is usually sulfated at the 4th or 6th position.