Environmental exposure to β-glucan is ubiquitous. A review of different
cellular reactions induced by β-glucan demonstrates a complex pattern of inflammatory
reactions depending upon the molecular structure, the dose, and the duration of
exposure. Epidemiological data suggest that airways inflammation, atopy,
hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and sarcoidosis are related to β-glucan exposure although
causality cannot be ascertained. Treatment and health promotion benefits by β-glucan
are less clear cut.
Keywords: Glucan, environment, allergy, dust, yeast, lung, endotoxin, LPS,
environment, spores, exposure, airborne, mannan, Limulus, inhalation, airways,
antibody, asthma, sarcoidosis, IL-6.