DEAE-Dextran (MW 500000) is a complex carbohydrate polymer composed of glucose molecules linked by glycosidic bonds and modified with diethylaminoethyl (DEAE) groups. As a cationic molecule, DEAE-Dextran functions as a transfection agent capable of delivering nucleic acids, such as DNA or RNA, into cells. Its positive charge interacts with negatively charged cell membranes to facilitate nucleic acid uptake. Additionally, DEAE-Dextran serves as an ion exchange chromatography resin, enabling the separation and purification of biomolecules based on their charge.