Immunostimulatory Properties and Antitumor Activities of Glucans

Author: mycolabadmin
2013-06-05
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Summary

This research examines how certain complex sugars called glucans, found in mushrooms and other fungi, can boost our immune system and help fight cancer. These compounds have been used in traditional Asian medicine for centuries and are now being scientifically validated for their therapeutic potential. Impacts on everyday life: • Natural supplements containing glucans could help strengthen the immune system • Mushroom-derived compounds may provide complementary cancer treatments • Understanding glucans’ effects could lead to better natural antimicrobial treatments • This research validates some traditional medicine practices with modern science • Development of new drug delivery systems using natural glucan carriers

Background

Recent scientific interest has focused on investigating traditional medical therapeutics, including glucans from medicinal mushrooms commonly used in Oriental medicine. These fungal wall components have shown immunotherapeutic properties, particularly in enhancing anticancer immunity responses through stimulation of innate immune system cells. The discovery of specific glucan receptors on dendritic cells and interactions with other immune cell receptors has increased interest in their therapeutic potential.

Objective

To review the characteristics of glucans from mycelial walls as immune system modulators and evaluate their potential use as antitumor treatments. The study examines their sources, properties, immunostimulatory effects, receptor interactions, and antitumor activities.

Results

Glucans demonstrate significant immunostimulatory properties by activating innate immunity cells, enhancing antimicrobial activity of mononuclear cells and neutrophils, and stimulating cytokine production. They interact with multiple cell surface receptors including complement receptor-3, lactosylceramides, scavenger receptors and particularly dectin-1. Studies show glucans can inhibit tumor growth and metastasis through immune system modulation, with tumor inhibition ratios ranging from 90.4% to 99.6% in animal models.

Conclusion

Beta-glucans show promising potential as immunotherapeutic agents, particularly in cancer treatment. Their effectiveness varies based on chemical composition, configuration and physical properties. While clinical applications show promise, more research is needed to fully characterize biologically active molecules and standardize preparations. Beyond oncology, glucans also show potential applications in nanomedicine as natural nanocarriers and in wound healing.

Published in:International Journal of Oncology,
Study Type:Review,
Source: 10.3892/ijo.2013.1974