Low molecular mass dermatan sulfate modulates endothelial cells proliferation and migration.

Low molecular mass dermatan sulfate, obtained by depolymerization, induced the entrance in S phase of mitosis, enhanced the activity of matrix metalloproteinase-2, and could modulate cell migration of endothelial cells, through mechanisms independent of TNF-α autocrine regulation. LMMDS located at the injured sites could influence early stages of angiogenesis.