THE EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF BETA GLUCAN

Hyoju Riza and Xiuli Wang*

ABSTRACT

B-Glucans are glucose polymers obtained from various sources, for instance, fungus, grain, and yeast. Several receptors mediate the process of β-glucan actions or activities in the organism; these receptors include the lactosylceramide, scavenger receptor, CR3 (Complement Receptor 3), TLR-2, 4, 6 (Toll-Like Receptors), and Dectine-1 Receptor. The fine structural features and molecular size of β-glucan play a critical role on its chain shape or conformation and solubility and hence, on its rheological features in solutions. Recent data indicate that β- glucans are effective immunomodulators which influence the adaptive and innate immunity. Dermatology is one promising field of β-glucan application; this field incorporates aspects such as wound healing and care. There is a significant increase in the topical or contemporary application of β-glucan; this is mainly due to its pluripotent activity (rejuvenation, moisturization, radioprotection, immunomodulation, regenerative effects, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects) which act as a potential alternative therapy in the management of different skin conditions and diseases. Gamma irradiation is the most effective sterilization procedure for beta glucan.

Keywords: B-glucan, Efficacy, therapy, immune dulators.