irradiated beta-glucan

**Irradiated beta-glucan** refers to beta-glucan that has been exposed to ionizing radiation, typically gamma irradiation. This process depolymerizes the polysaccharide, altering its molecular structure and potentially enhancing certain biological activities like immunomodulation and radioprotection. Irradiated beta-glucan functions primarily as an immune modulator and radioprotective agent, with demonstrated effects in animal models including increased survival following ionizing radiation exposure and modulation of immune signaling pathways (including ERK-1 and PI3K). It stimulates immune responses via pattern recognition receptors such as Dectin-1, complement receptor 3 (CR3), and potentially others, leading to activation of innate and adaptive immune cells, increased cytokine and chemokine production, and enhanced DNA repair after oxidative damage. It has been studied for its protective effects against radiation-induced toxicity, its ability to enhance recovery after radiation therapy, and as a potential adjuvant or therapeutic modulator in cancer and possibly infectious diseases[1][2][3][7].

Other names

gamma-irradiated beta-glucanIGLUirradiated β-glucan