Beta-glucans are a group of polysaccharides of natural origin found in bacteria, algae and plants, such as cereal seeds, as well as micro- and macrofungi (mushrooms), which are characterized by their structural and functional diversity. They are known for their metabolic and immunomodulatory properties.
Why mushroom beta-glucan?
In contrast to β-glucans from other sources, β-glucans from mushrooms are characterized by β-1,3-glucans with short β-1,6-side chains. This structure is recognized by receptors located on the surface of immune cells; thus, mushroom β-glucans have specific immunomodulatory properties and gained BRM (biological response modifier) status. Moreover, mushroom beta-glucans also owe their properties to the formation of triple helix conformation, which is one of the key factors influencing the bioactivity of mushroom beta-glucans.
