Chondroitin sulfate sulfated glycosaminoglycan (GAG) composed of repeating disaccharide units of glucuronic acid and N-acetylgalactosamine , with one or more sulfate groupscore protein , forming part of a proteoglycan in the extracellular matrix (ECM) connective tissues .
Structure: Repeating disaccharide unit:D-glucuronic acid (GlcA) N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc) , often sulfated at position 4 or 6 Common forms:Chondroitin-4-sulfate (C4S) Chondroitin-6-sulfate (C6S) Function: Function Description Structural support Provides compressive strength and elasticity to cartilage , skin , and ligaments Water retentionAttracts water due to its negative charge, helping tissues remain hydrated and flexible Joint health Major component of articular cartilage , contributing to shock absorption and load-bearing Cell signalingInteracts with growth factors, cytokines , and ECM proteins to influence cell behavior
Where It’s Found: Cartilage Tendons Ligaments Skin Blood vessels Intervertebral discs Clinical and Therapeutic Relevance: Use/Condition Role Osteoarthritis Often taken as a supplement (alone or with glucosamine) to support joint health and slow cartilage breakdown Tissue engineering Used in scaffolds to mimic ECM and support cartilage repair Wound healing Can promote re-epithelialization and tissue remodeling
⚠️ Note: While widely used in dietary supplements , scientific evidence on its effectiveness for joint pain relief is mixed .
Chondroitin Sulfate vs. Other GAGs: GAG Type Key Feature Location Chondroitin sulfate Sulfated, flexible Cartilage, tendons Heparan sulfate Highly sulfated, signaling Basement membranes Keratan sulfate Found in cornea, cartilage Eye, joints Hyaluronic acid Not sulfated, very hydrating Joints, skin, eyes
Summary Table: Property Description Type Sulfated glycosaminoglycan (GAG) Basic Unit Glucuronic acid + N-acetylgalactosamine Function Structure, hydration, elasticity, signaling Found In Cartilage, tendons, skin, ligaments Clinical Use Joint supplements, tissue engineering Charge Highly negative (attracts water)
