Immune-modulatory effects of dietary Yeast Beta-1,3/1,6-D-glucan.
Beta-glucans are a heterogeneous group of natural polysaccharides mostly investigated for their immunological effects. Due to the low systemic availability of oral preparations, it has been thought that only parenterally applied beta-glucans can modulate the immune system. However, several in vivo and in vitro investigations have revealed that orally applied beta-glucans also exert such effects. Various receptor interactions, explaining possible mode of actions, have been detected. The effects mainly depend on the source and structure of the beta-glucans. In the meantime, several human clinical trials with dietary insoluble yeast beta-glucans have been performed. The results confirm the previous findings of in vivo studies. The results of all studies taken together clearly indicate that oral intake of insoluble yeast beta-glucans is safe and has an immune strengthening effect.
analyze & realize GmbH, Waldseeweg 6, 13467 Berlin, Germany. hstier@analyze-realize.com.
Heike
H
Stier
Veronika
V
Ebbeskotte
Joerg
J
Gruenwald
D000818:Animals; D003139:Common Cold / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans; D007155:Immunologic Factors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D051381:Rats; D047071:beta-Glucans / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D007155:Immunologic Factors; D047071:beta-Glucans