According to researchers led by David Underhill, PhD, from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in LA, and UCLA, the size and molecular structure of beta glucan is critical to its ability to bind to immune system receptors, and for triggering the subsequent immune response.
The LA-based scientists focused on the immune receptor called Dectin-1, which is said to distinguish between direct microbial contact and detection of microbes at a distance, a distinction that enables effective microbial killing responses.
When Dectin-1 was exposed to a variety of beta-glucans, it was found that only specific beta-glucans were able to bind to the receptor, and therefore activate it.
Commercially available
The researchers tested particulate S. cerevisiae beta-glucans from Sigma and whole glucan particles (Wellmune WGP; Biothera), and also prepared soluble S. cerevisiae beta-glucans by exposing the WGP to acid hydrolysis.
“This research was possible because of Biothera’s capability to isolate, modify and characterize these beta glucan compounds,” explained Dr Underhill.
The study showed that the receptor Dectin-1 distinguished between direct microbial contact and detection of microbes at a distance. According to the data presented in Nature, when bound to Biothera’s ingredient, the receptor primed immune cells for phagocytosis, a mechanism used to recognize and destroy pathogens.
“This research demonstrates that the structure of beta glucans matters,” said William Grossman, MD, PhD, Biothera senior vice president of R&D. “Even slight molecular differences in beta glucans affect the signaling pathways used to induce different killing mechanisms.
“These data expand on our previous research showing that some of our other beta glucan structures bind to CR3, inducing separate and unique mechanisms.”
The ingredient
Wellmune WGP, derived from the cell walls of a proprietary strain of yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) via a patented manufacturing process, is a natural carbohydrate that activates key immune cells.
Designed for use with foods, beverages and premium supplements, Wellmune can be used in a large number of subcategories in each segment. For example, beverages example, may include dairy, waters, teas, juices, sports drinks and other functional beverages, as well as powdered beverages.
The company claims that Wellmune, unlike other natural products, enhances immune function without over stimulating the immune system, which may be harmful and claims that its mode of action in the body is well understood.
Source: Nature
Volume 472, Pages 471–475, doi:10.1038/nature10071
“Activation of the innate immune receptor Dectin-1 upon formation of a ‘phagocytic synapse’”
Authors: H.S. Goodridge, C.N. Reyes, C.A. Becker, T.R. Katsumoto, J. Ma, A.J. Wolf, N. Bose, A.S. H. Chan, A.S. Magee, M.E. Danielson, A. Weiss, J.P. Vasilakos, D.M. Underhill