Beta-glucans are a heterogeneous group of natural polysaccharides mostly investigated for their immunological\neffects. Due to the low systemic availability of oral preparations, it has been thought that only parenterally applied\nbeta-glucans can modulate the immune system. However, several in vivo and in vitro investigations have revealed\nthat orally applied beta-glucans also exert such effects. Various receptor interactions, explaining possible mode of\nactions, have been detected. The effects mainly depend on the source and structure of the beta-glucans. In the\nmeantime, several human clinical trials with dietary insoluble yeast beta-glucans have been performed. The results\nconfirm the previous findings of in vivo studies. The results of all studies taken together clearly indicate that oral\nintake of insoluble yeast beta-glucans is safe and has an immune strengthening effect.
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