Chondroitin sulfate (CS) is a glycosaminoglycan (GAG) found in connective tissue and the nervous system, normally attached to a protein core. CS GAG chains are of heteropolycaccharides of variable length comprised of alternating sugars D-glucuronic acid (GlcA) and N-acetyl-D-galactosamine (GalNac). In some of these sugars, some GlcA residues are epimerized into L-iduronic acid (IdoA), in which case the GAG chain would be called dermatan sulfate (DS). Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are long unbranched polysaccharides, made up of repeating disaccharides that may be sulphated (e. ... Connective tissue is any type of biological tissue with an extensive extracellular matrix and often serves to support, bind together, and protect organs. ... The nervous system of an animal coordinates the activity of the muscles, monitors the organs, constructs and processes input from the senses, and initiates actions. ... A representation of the 3D structure of myoglobin, showing coloured alpha helices. ... Glucuronic acid - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia /**/ @import /skins-1. ...

In the matrix of cartilage, CS functions to maintain osmotic pressure by absorbing water and therefore help hydrate the cartilage. CS also contributes to the flexibility and elasticity of the bone. Most importantly, it serves as a chondroprotective agent by protecting the cartilage against enzymatic reactions and free radical damage (including nitric oxide released by chondrocytes).

In the nervous system, chondroitin sulfates are attached to a family of proteoglycans that serve to regulate the growth and development of the nervous system as well as the nervous system response to injury. Proteoglycans represent a special class of glycoprotein that are heavily glycosylated. ...

A combination of Chondroitin Sulfate and Glucosamine is receiving attention for the treatment of osteoarthritis. While there are no firm clinical data indicating that this combination is effective, radiographic evidence from a clinical trial suggests that taking these may retard disease progress.