Immunohistochemical localization of chondroitin sulfate and dermatan sulfate proteoglycan in human gingival connective tissue.

This study investigated the immunohistochemical localization of chondroitin sulfate (chondroitin, 4-sulfate and 6-sulfate) and dermatan sulfate proteoglycan (PG) in human gingival connective tissue, using monoclonal antibodies. Dermatan sulfate was found to be widespread in connective tissue, with an especially strong response shown in collagen fiber bundles under the epithelial basement membrane. Chondroitin 4-sulfate occurred widely in connective tissue but showed only a weak response. Chondroitin 6-sulfate was located in peripheral blood vessels. Chondroitin was not detected in gingival connective tissue.