Immune cell surface receptors for beta-glucans

Immune cell surface receptors for beta-glucans are a diverse class of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) that mediate the recognition of (1,3)-beta-D-glucans, which are conserved structural components of fungal cell walls and certain plants. The primary receptor in this group is Dectin-1 (CLEC7A), a C-type lectin receptor expressed on macrophages, dendritic cells, and neutrophils that initiates immune responses through the Syk/CARD9 signaling pathway. Other significant receptors include Complement Receptor 3 (CR3, also known as Mac-1 or CD11b/CD18), which binds beta-glucans to prime the cell for the destruction of iC3b-opsonized targets, and lactosylceramide (LacCer), which is involved in neutrophil activation. These receptors play a pivotal role in host defense against fungal infections and are increasingly targeted in oncology to stimulate innate immune surveillance and induce trained immunity, an epigenetic reprogramming of myeloid cells that enhances their long-term responsiveness. Therapeutic strategies involve the use of beta-glucan agonists, such as Imprime PGG and Lentinan, which are designed to activate these receptors and synergize with monoclonal antibodies or checkpoint inhibitors to improve anti-tumor efficacy. While generally well-tolerated, potential safety concerns include excessive cytokine production and hypersensitivity reactions.

Other names

Beta-glucan receptorsβ-glucan receptorsDectin-1CLEC7AComplement receptor 3CR3CD11b/CD18LactosylceramideLacCerScavenger receptors

Agonism of Dectin-1 and priming of Complement Receptor 3 (CR3) to stimulate innate immune cell activation, phagocytosis, and cytokine release.