L-Iduronic acid sodium salt (CAS 61199-83-5)

L-Iduronic acid sodium salt is a crucial compound in glycobiology research, highly valued for its role as a fundamental component of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) in the extracellular matrix and on cell surfaces. Its unique structure, featuring a carboxylate group and a sulfate moiety on the C2 and C3 positions, respectively, distinguishes it from its epimer, D-glucuronic acid. L-Iduronic acid plays a pivotal role in the structure and function of various GAGs, including heparan sulfate and dermatan sulfate, by imparting specific structural and biochemical properties. Researchers utilize L-Iduronic acid sodium salt as a substrate for studying the biosynthesis and modification of GAGs, including the enzymatic mechanisms involved in their polymerization and sulfation. Moreover, this compound serves as a valuable tool in investigating the interactions between GAGs and their binding partners, such as growth factors, cytokines, and extracellular matrix proteins, contributing to our understanding of cell signaling, tissue development, and pathophysiological processes. Additionally, L-Iduronic acid sodium salt finds applications in the development of biomaterials, drug delivery systems, and tissue engineering scaffolds, exploiting its unique chemical properties and biological functions. Overall, this compound plays a crucial role in advancing our understanding of glycosaminoglycan biology and its implications in various research fields, ranging from molecular biology to biomedical engineering.