Beta-Glucans in Biotechnology: A Holistic Review with a Special Focus on Yeast

Beta-glucans (β-glucans) are polysaccharides with significant biological activity, widely recognized for their immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic health benefits. Among various sources, yeast-derived β-(1 → 3), (1 → 6)-glucans have gained particular attention due to their potent bioactivity and diverse applications in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and functional foods. This review comprehensively examines yeast β-glucans, covering their biosynthesis, extraction, and purification from industrially relevant yeast strains, particularly Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The impact of fermentation parameters on β-glucan yield and structural properties is analyzed, highlighting advancements in optimizing microbial production. Furthermore, we discuss methods for characterizing yeast β-glucans, including analytical and bioassay techniques, and compare their physicochemical properties with those of β-glucans from other sources. Finally, this review explores the therapeutic potential of yeast-derived β-glucans, focusing on their role in immunomodulation and metabolic regulation and their emerging applications in biomedicine, functional foods, and industrial formulations. By synthesizing recent advancements, this work provides insights into the expanding utilization of yeast β-glucans and their potential for future biotechnological developments.