beta-D-glucan

Beta-D-glucan is a polysaccharide composed of D-glucose molecules linked mainly by β-1,3 and β-1,6 glycosidic bonds. It is naturally found in the cell walls of fungi, certain bacteria, algae, and grains like oats and barley. In a clinical context, beta-D-glucan is most notably used as a biomarker for diagnosing invasive fungal infections (IFIs) due to its abundance in fungal cell walls; its detection in serum provides an early, non-culture-based indication of IFI, especially involving Candida, Aspergillus, Pneumocystis jirovecii, and Fusarium. As a supplement, beta-D-glucan is investigated for cardiovascular benefits (cholesterol lowering), blood sugar regulation, digestive health, immune modulation, wound healing, and as an adjunct in cancer immunotherapy, attributed to its effects on innate and adaptive immunity, including stimulation of macrophages, dendritic cells, and cytokine secretion. Sources and effects vary by origin and molecular structure[1][3][4][7][8][10].

Brand names

Fungitell

Other names

1,3-beta-D-glucanBDGbeta-glucanβ-glucan(1→3)-β-D-glucan(1,3)-β-D-glucan