Dextran is a complex carbohydrate made up of glucose molecules linked together. It is produced by certain bacteria and is commonly used in various medical and industrial applications due to its unique properties. Dextran can be found in different molecular weights, which affects its solubility and viscosity. In medicine, dextran is often used as a plasma volume expander to treat low blood volume conditions. It can also serve as a stabilizer in pharmaceuticals and as a thickening agent in food products. Its biocompatibility makes it valuable in research and biotechnology as well.