Comparison Of Immunological Effects Of Commercially Available β-Glucans

Beta glucan belongs to the most promising natural immunomodulators. However, despite decades of intensive research, its biological activity is still not fully understood. One of the causes might be the difference between individual glucans. In this study we compare nine different commercially available glucans for their activity in phagocytosis, IL-2 production, antibody formation and cancer growth reduction. Our data clearly showed the significant differences among these glucans and further confirmed that even if most glucans have strong stimulating effects on most aspects of the immune system, it is necessary to choose the right one. Keywords: Glucan; phagocytosis; IL-2; antibody; cancer