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Anthrax-protective effects of yeast beta 1,3 glucans
Bill Kournikakis1, Rosemonde Mandeville, Pauline Brousseau
1Chemical and Biological Defence Section, Defence R&D Canada, Suffield, Medicine Hat, Alberta, Can
Medgenmed : Medscape General Medicine
|June 27, 2003
Summary
Beta1,3-glucan immune modulators significantly protect mice against anthrax by increasing survival and reducing bacterial load. These findings highlight beta-glucans as potential defenses against anthrax, a bioterrorism threat.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Bioterrorism threats necessitate novel defense strategies.
- Anthrax, caused by Bacillus anthracis, remains a significant biological warfare concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the anthrax-protective effects of beta1,3-glucan immune modulators (PGG-glucan and WGP beta glucan).
Main Methods:
- Balb/c mice received beta1,3-glucan via subcutaneous injection or oral gavage prior to or after Bacillus anthracis spore challenge.
- Survival rates, survival times, and microbial bioburden were assessed compared to controls.
Main Results:
- A single injected dose of PGG-glucan or WGP beta glucan increased survival 2.5-fold and reduced lung bacterial load 4-8 fold.
- Oral WGP beta glucan increased survival from 50% to 100% prophylactically and from 30% to 90% therapeutically.
- The proportion of bacteria-free animals 10 days post-challenge doubled with treatment.
Conclusions:
- Beta1,3-glucan immune modulators show potential for protecting against anthrax infection in a mouse model.
- Further research is needed to optimize dosing, evaluate combination therapies, and test efficacy in other models and against other biological warfare agents.