| Modification Notes |
Chondroitin sulfate is a sulfated glycosaminoglycan (GAG) composed of a chain of alternating sugars, usually attached to proteins as part of a proteoglycan. Chondroitin sulfate is a major component of the extracellular matrix, and it plays a key role in maintaining the structural integrity of the tissue. Chondroitin sulfate is an important structural component of cartilage and is responsible for most of its resistance to compression. This molecule also has regulatory roles, as it readily interacts with proteins in the extracellular matrix due to its negative charges. These interactions are important for regulating a diverse array of cellular activities. In the nervous system, chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans function to regulate the growth and development of the nervous system as well as the nervous system response to injury. Chondroitin is commonly used in dietary supplements as an alternative medicine to treat osteoarthritis. |
