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Potentiation of histamine release by Microfungal (1-->3)- and (1-->6)-beta-D-glucans
Peter Holck1, Marit Sletmoen, Bjørn Torger Stokke
1Department of Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, the Panum Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Abstract:
(1-->3)-beta-D-Glucans, a cell wall component in most microfungi, are suggested to play a role in the development of respiratory and general symptoms in organic dust-related diseases. The mechanisms by which they induce these effects are, however, not clear. In the present study, mediator release and its potentiation by the (1-->3)-beta-D-glucan as well as by the (1-->6)-beta-D-glucan found in yeast and other fungi were therefore examined. Blood leucocytes from healthy volunteers and from patients allergic to house dust mite were incubated with (1-->3)-beta-D-glucans with increasing 1,6-branchings: curdlan [a linear (1-->3)-beta-D-glucan], laminarin and scleroglucan, and furthermore with pustulan, a linear (1-->6)-beta-D-glucan. Histamine release was not observed on exposure to the glucans only, but in the presence of anti-immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibody or specific antigens, all the glucans investigated led to an enhancement of the IgE-mediated histamine release. The glucans induced a significant potentiation of the mediator release when present at concentrations in the range of 2-5 x 10(-5) M. These results suggest that (1-->3)-beta-D-glucan as well as (1-->6)-beta-D-glucan aggravates IgE-mediated histamine release. Knowledge concerning the effects of glucans on immune responses may be of importance for understanding and treating inflammatory and allergic diseases.
Insights
Beta-glucans, found in fungi, can worsen allergic reactions by enhancing immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated histamine release. This finding is crucial for understanding and treating inflammatory and allergic diseases.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Mycology
- Allergology
Background:
- Beta-glucans are fungal cell wall components implicated in respiratory and organic dust-related diseases.
- The precise mechanisms by which beta-glucans induce symptoms are not fully understood.
- Investigating beta-glucan's role in immune responses is vital for managing allergic conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine mediator release and its potentiation by (1-->3)-beta-D-glucan and (1-->6)-beta-D-glucan.
- To clarify the role of fungal beta-glucans in IgE-mediated immune responses.
- To assess the impact of different beta-glucan structures on histamine release.
Main Methods:
- Incubation of blood leucocytes from healthy volunteers and allergic patients with various beta-glucans (curdlan, laminarin, scleroglucan, pustulan).
- Exposure to anti-immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibody or specific antigens in the presence of beta-glucans.
- Measurement of histamine release to assess mediator release and potentiation.
Main Results:
- Beta-glucans alone did not induce histamine release.
- All tested glucans significantly enhanced IgE-mediated histamine release when present with anti-IgE or antigens.
- Potentiation of mediator release occurred at beta-glucan concentrations between 2-5 x 10(-5) M.
Conclusions:
- Both (1-->3)-beta-D-glucan and (1-->6)-beta-D-glucan aggravate IgE-mediated histamine release.
- Fungal beta-glucans can exacerbate allergic inflammatory responses.
- Understanding beta-glucan effects on immune responses is key for treating inflammatory and allergic diseases.
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