[Note on glycosaminoglycans].

Abstract

Having briefly recalled the chemical structure of glycosamine glycans (GAG) and the therapeutic use of standard heparin at conventional doses (anticoagulant action) and at low dosage (antithrombotic action), the properties and therapeutic employment of low molecular weight heparins (LMWH) are illustrated, and their advantages and disadvantages compared to standard heparin are discussed. Subsequently, the characteristics of heparan sulfates and other GAGs of the vascular endothelium and their therapeutic properties are described. Finally, GAGs found in articular structures are also mentioned.