- 62 Abstract The present invention relates to a glucan having a weight average molar mass of 5 15,000 to 50,000 g/mol on a single chain basis and a weight average molar mass in aqueous solution on an aggregate basis of 4 to 20 x 105 g/mol and existing in gel form in aqueous solution at a concentration : 1 % at 25C and neutral pH and having a melting temperature (gel to sol) of above 300C when the glucan is dissolved in water at a concentration of 2%, methods for the production thereof , 10 medical uses thereof, physical supports having the glucan applied thereto or impregnated thereon and in vitro methods of proliferation of skin cells which comprise contacting a population of skin cells with the glucan.
