Dextran is widely used in the medical field as a plasma volume expander. It is administered intravenously to treat or prevent shock following severe blood loss, surgery, or trauma. It helps maintain blood pressure and circulation by increasing the volume of plasma in the bloodstream. Additionally, it is used in eye drops to treat dry eyes and as a component in contrast agents for medical imaging, such as MRI.

In pharmaceuticals, dextran serves as an excipient in drug formulations. It acts as a stabilizer, binder, or coating agent in tablets and capsules, ensuring controlled drug release and enhancing stability.

Dextran is also utilized in laboratory settings for cell separation and purification processes. It is a key component in techniques like size-exclusion chromatography and aqueous two-phase systems, aiding in the isolation of proteins, nucleic acids, and other biomolecules. It supports efficient filtering and separation of large molecules.

Additionally, dextran is employed in the production of biocompatible materials, such as hydrogels and coatings for medical devices. Its properties improve biocompatibility and reduce the risk of adverse reactions in implants and other medical tools.

In the food industry, dextran is used as a thickening, stabilizing, or texturizing agent in products like ice cream, sauces, and baked goods. It enhances texture and shelf life while maintaining product quality.

Lastly, dextran-based compounds are explored in drug delivery systems, particularly for targeted therapies. Its ability to form conjugates with drugs allows for controlled release and improved efficacy in treating diseases like cancer. In research, dextran serves as a model for studying biochemical reactions and processes due to its complex, modifiable structure.