Studies on dextran and dextran derivatives. I. Properties of native dextran in different solvents

Light‐scattering, sedimentation, viscosity, and reducing power measurements have been carried out on a sample of native dextran from Leuconostoc mesenteriodes B‐512. The results are discussed in relation to the structure, polydispersity, and branching of the polysaccharide. The effect of different solvents on the behavior of native dextran has been studied. The molecular weight of the dextran remains unchanged in all the solvents used, while the radius of gyration shows a significant increase in some of them (concentrated salts, urea, and glucose solutions); in water–methanol solutions the radius of gyration slightly decreases.