Pentosan

Pentosan is a term used in biochemistry and pharmacology to describe polysaccharides that contain five-carbon sugars, or pentoses, as their building blocks. In carbohydrate chemistry, pentosans refer to a broad class of plant-derived polysaccharides that are often heteropolysaccharides composed of pentose residues such as xylose and arabinose. These polysaccharides occur in plant cell walls and are particularly associated with xylans (including glucuronoxylans) and arabinoxylans. They can be branched and are generally soluble to varying degrees, contributing to the dietary fiber content and viscosity of plant materials.

In industry and research, pentosans are studied for their roles in biomass and paper production, where they influence pulp properties and processing. They are also of interest in food science as thickening or stabilizing agents and as components of dietary fiber in cereals and legumes. Their composition and structure affect their extraction, solubility, and functional behavior in different applications.

Pentosan polysulfate sodium (PPS) is a distinct compound that belongs to the same broad family of sulfated polysaccharides but is used as a prescription drug in some countries. PPS is indicated for interstitial cystitis and is thought to help restore the bladder mucosal glycosaminoglycan layer, though its exact mechanism remains uncertain. It can be associated with side effects such as gastrointestinal symptoms and, rarely, bleeding. As with other medical treatments, its use should be guided by healthcare professionals.

In general, the term pentosan can refer to any pentose-containing polysaccharide, with context determining whether a reference is to plant structural polysaccharides or a specific pharmaceutical agent.