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(1-->3)-beta-D-glucan determination in rat organs with limulus coagulation factor G
Research in Experimental Medicine. Zeitschrift Fur Die Gesamte Experimentelle Medizin Einschliesslich Experimenteller Chirurgie
|January 1, 1997
Summary
This study investigated intrinsic (1-->3)-beta-D-glucan in rat organs. High levels were found in the small intestine and lungs, potentially from stool contamination and inhaled particles, respectively.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Toxicology
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- False positive Limulus tests can occur post-surgery or hemodialysis due to extrinsic (1-->3)-beta-D-glucan.
- Intrinsic factors and presence of (1-->3)-beta-D-glucan in mammalian organs remain under-investigated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify intrinsic (1-->3)-beta-D-glucan in various rat organs and stool.
- To identify sources of (1-->3)-beta-D-glucan in mammalian tissues.
Main Methods:
- Homogenates of rat organs and stool were analyzed for (1-->3)-beta-D-glucan.
- The Gluspecy test (G test) with factor G was employed for detection.
- Enzymatic digestion with end-(1-->3)-beta-D-glucanase confirmed the substance's identity.
Main Results:
- Significant amounts of (1-->3)-beta-D-glucan were detected in the small intestine and lungs.
- Minimal (1-->3)-beta-D-glucan was found in kidneys, spleen, aorta, thymus, heart, and liver.
- No (1-->3)-beta-D-glucan was observed in serum or plasma.
- Extremely high levels were present in stool samples.
Conclusions:
- Intrinsic (1-->3)-beta-D-glucan is present in rat organs, notably the small intestine and lungs.
- High levels in the small intestine may result from stool contamination.
- Lung (1-->3)-beta-D-glucan likely originates from inhaled environmental particles trapped by macrophages.
