Physiological functionalities and mechanisms of β-glucans

Background: beta-Glucans are polysaccharides constructed of glucose monomers linked by beta-glucosidic bonds, which mainly exist in cereals (barley and oat), yeast and mushrooms. Some physiological functionalities of beta-glucans have been confirmed, consequently, their development and utilization in the biomedical, pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries have received increasing interest. Foods and dietary supplements containing beta-glucans are very popular. Scope and approach: This review summarizes recent findings regarding the physiological functionalities of beta-glucans and details the action mechanisms of beta-glucans upon the present knowledge. The prospects for future research on these topics are also discussed. Key findings and conclusions: beta-Glucans are effective in many aspects of human health, including cancer prevention, reducing glycemia and serum cholesterol, anti-inflammation, as well as improving immunity. The modification of beta-glucans contributes to better solubility, viscosity and gelation, which can change the bioactivities of beta-glucans. The action mechanisms of beta-glucans and their derivatives are considered to be mainly mediated by some cytokines and hormones in subjects. Human health is supported by various mechanism researches. Although certain action mechanisms remain unclear, the clarification of how beta-glucans exhibit biological effects is beneficial for our understanding of complicated biochemical reaction in living organisms.