β-glucan nanoparticles

β-Glucan nanoparticles are advanced drug delivery systems based on the polysaccharide β-glucan, which is naturally found in the cell walls of fungi and yeasts. These particles are engineered to encapsulate or bind therapeutic agents such as small molecules (e.g., anticancer drugs), proteins, nucleic acids (DNA/RNAi), or other nanomaterials (e.g., magnetic iron oxide or gold nanoparticles). The primary mechanism of action involves targeted delivery to phagocytic immune cells—especially macrophages—via specific receptors like Dectin-1 and complement receptor 3 (CR3) that recognize β-glucans. This enables selective uptake by immune cells and can enhance immunomodulation and antitumor responses[2][4][6].

Other names

beta-glucan nanoparticlesbeta-1,3 glucan nanoparticlesβ-1,3 glucan nanoparticles