USE OF DEXTRAN AND OTHER POLYSACCHARIDES TO IMPROVE MUCUS CLEARANCE

摘要

This invention relates to the use of polysaccharide such as dextran to improve m ucus clearance. In the present invention, dextran has been shown to reduce viscoelast icity and increase mucus clearability of sputum of cystic fibrosis patients. Dextran also reduced viscoelasticity of healthy dog mucus. The present invention therefore may be use d to improve mucus clearance in cystic fibrosis patients and treat other conditions a ssociated with defect in airway mucus clearance including chronic bronchitis, bronchiectas is and bronchial asthma.