Where is dextran derived from?

Dextran is a polysaccharide that is primarily derived from bacteria, particularly those found in dental plaque. It is an extracellular polysaccharide produced by certain strains of Leuconostoc and other bacteria during the fermentation of sucrose. This natural polymer plays a significant role in various biological processes, including its use in medical and biotechnological applications.

In dental health, dextran is associated with the formation of plaque, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Since it is created as a product of bacterial metabolism, the connection to dental plaque bacteria is pivotal to understanding where dextran originates. The other options presented do not accurately reflect the microbial source of dextran, as it is not synthesized from algae, trees, plants, or insect materials. This origination relates directly to its role in both health and disease contexts in humans.