The present invention relates to a glucan having a weight average molar mass of 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 10 g/mol and existing in gel form in aqueous solution at a concentration =1 % at 25�C and neutral pH and having a melting temperature (gel to sol) of 30 to 44�C when the glucan is dissolved in water at a concentration of 2% methods for the production thereof medical uses thereof physical supports having the glucan applied thereto or impregnated thereon and in methods of proliferation of skin cells which comprise contacting a population of skin cells with the glucan.
