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Fungal β-Glucans: Biological Properties, Immunomodulatory Effects, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Applications

Summary

β-glucans are beneficial compounds found in fungi and some plants that help your body in multiple ways. They boost your immune system, lower cholesterol and blood sugar, protect against oxidative stress, and may help fight cancer and infections. Recent research shows they could be useful as diagnostic markers for fungal infections and as vaccine boosters, especially for diseases like COVID-19.

Background

β-glucans are natural polysaccharides found in fungal cell walls, yeasts, and some plants like barley and wheat. These compounds have been recognized for their multiple health-promoting properties including cholesterol and blood glucose reduction, antioxidant effects, and immune-boosting capabilities. Research has demonstrated their potential as therapeutic and diagnostic tools for invasive fungal infections.

Objective

This review examined the main characteristics, therapeutic options, and diagnostic potentials of fungal β-glucans. The study aimed to synthesize evidence supporting the biological properties, immunomodulatory effects, and clinical applications of β-glucans in diagnosis, treatment, and vaccine development.

Results

β-glucans demonstrated multiple biological activities including immune system modulation through binding to Dectin-1, CR3, and TLR-2 receptors on immune cells. They exhibited antitumor properties, improved intestinal health through prebiotic effects, possessed antioxidant properties, and showed efficacy in upper respiratory tract infections including COVID-19. As diagnostic markers, (1→3)-β-D-glucan (BDG) assays showed sensitivity and specificity ranging from 77-99% for invasive fungal infections.

Conclusion

Fungal β-glucans represent a significant bioactive substance with diverse health benefits including immune stimulation, tumor suppression, metabolic regulation, and antimicrobial effects. They show promising applications in diagnosis of invasive fungal infections and vaccine development. Further clinical trials and research are necessary to establish optimal therapeutic protocols and expand their medical applications.
  • Published in:Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: PMID: 40225707, DOI: 10.36519/idcm.2025.448
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