The Pronova product range is a family of highly purified, well characterized, biocompatible and biodegradable alginates, developed for use in biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. These products are available in two variants, Pronova UP (ultra pure) and Pronova SL (sterile), both having extremely low levels of endotoxins and proteins.

Alginates are linear copolymers with homopolymeric blocks of (1→4)-linked beta-Dmannuronate (M) and its C-5 epimer alpha-L-guluronate (G) residues respectively, covalently linked together in different sequences or blocks. Alternating M and G blocks form the most flexible chains which exhibit excellent solubility at lower pH.

The process of sterilizing alginate solutions may often be an obstacle due to polymer degradation during autoclaving or irradiation procedures. On the other hand, sterile filtration of highly viscous solutions may also be difficult. To overcome these problems, Pronova SL grades are introduced which are available in a sterilized and lyophilized form. Sterile aqueous solutions of sodium alginates can now be made by simply adding sterile water or buffers to Pronova SL and shaking the vial to facilitate its dissolution.