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Allergy Symptoms. When compared with placebo treatment with Wellmune WGP® for 4 weeks, there was a reduction observed in total number of allergy symptoms (28%), in symptom severity (52%),and in the rating of symptoms on the VAS (37%).*P < 0.05 compared with placebo.
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This randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study compared the effects of daily supplementation for 4 week with 250 mg Wellmune WGP® β-1,3/1,6-Glucan (WGP) with placebo 250 mg/day (rice flour) on physical and psychological health attributes of self-described "moderate" ragweed allergy sufferers. Study participants (mean age = 36 ± 9 year; ran...
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Context 1
... Symptoms (Allergy Symptoms and RQLQ Survey) Figure 2 compares the serum IgE concentrations (reported in kU/L), total number of allergy symptoms, allergy symptom severity, and allergy symptom scores on the VAS ( Hornblow and Kidson 1976;Price et al. 1983;Linder 1988;Hallen et al. 2001;Bousquet et al. 2007) before and 4 weeks after treatment with WGP or placebo. There were no differences in ragweed-specific serum IgE levels. ...Similar publications
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Bark and ambrosia beetles are typical forest insects boring characteristic galleries under the bark and within the wood of the host trees. Because bark beetle species are very similar to each other morphologically, the identification of these insects is particularly complicated. The purpose of this handbook is, hence, to provide a tool useful to id...
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A field experiment was conducted to quantify pollen mediated gene flow (PMGF) from glyphosate-resistant (GR) to glyphosate-susceptible (GS) giant ragweed under simulated field conditions using glyphosate resistance as a selective marker. Field experiments were conducted in a concentric design with the GR giant ragweed pollen source planted in the c...
Citations
... 39 Glucans support type 1 immune response by increasing interferon production, opposing the infections. 40 Glycyrrhetic acid (GA) at 2.5%, the most active glycyrrhizin component, is a glycoside alkaloid present in glycyrrhiza glabra roots. 41 GA inhibits the high-mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1), an alarmin, and chemotactic and mitogenic functions without impeding DNA binding, thus making for relevant anti-inflammatory effects. ...
Background: Preschoolers frequently have respiratory infections (RIs) that, in turn, may cause wheezing in some subjects. Type 2 polarization may favor increased susceptibility to RIs and associated wheezing. Non-pharmacological remedies are garnering increasing interest as possible add-on therapies. The present preliminary study investigated the efficacy and safety of a new multicomponent nasal spray in preschoolers with frequent RIs and associated wheezing. Methods: Some preschoolers with these characteristics randomly took this product, containing lactoferrin, dipotassium glycyrrhizinate, carboxymethyl-beta-glucan, vitamin C, and vitamin D3 (Saflovir), two sprays per nostril twice daily for three months. Other children were randomly treated only with standard therapy. Outcomes included the number of RIs and wheezing episodes, medications use, and symptoms' severity. Results: preschoolers treated add-on with this multicomponent product experienced fewer RIs and used fewer b2-agonists than untreated children (p=0.01 and 0.029, respectively). Conclusions: This preliminary experience demonstrated that a multicomponent product, add-on administered as a nasal spray, could reduce the incidence of respiratory infections and the use of symptomatic drugs for relieving wheezing in children.
... Similarly, the oral administration of β-1,3/1,6-glucans (Wellmune WGP ® ) attenuated the Th2 response in a murine model of OVA-induced asthma [74]. In a randomized, placebo-controlled trial, a 4-week daily supplementation of Wellmune WGP ® at a dose of 250 mg/day during the allergy season to individuals suffering from ragweed allergy significantly reduced total allergy symptoms and symptom severity by 28% and 52%, respectively, and improved quality of life by 56%, but did not affect serum IgE levels [75]. On the other hand, the intratracheal administration of β-1,3-glucan to mice exacerbated allergic asthma independently of fungal sensitization and promoted glucocorticoid-resistant Th2 and Th17 responses [76]. ...
This review explores the ‘gut–lung axis’ in asthma with a focus on commensal fungal organisms. We explore how changes to the intestinal commensal fungal community composition alter lung immune function. We comprehensively review available studies that have profiled the composition of the gut mycobiome in adults and children with asthma, and discuss mechanisms of gut–lung interactions that have been described in animal models of asthma. Studies indicate that intestinal fungal dysbiosis, such as an increased abundance of certain fungi like Candida, can elevate the risk of asthma in children and exacerbate it in adults. This effect is mediated through various pathways: the host immune system’s sensing of dysbiosis via C-type lectin receptors (e.g., Dectin-2), the impact of pro-inflammatory fungal metabolites (e.g., 12,13-diHOME, prostaglandin E2), and the role of lung immune cells (e.g., group 2 innate lymphoid cells [ILC2], M2 macrophages). We also describe strategies for modulating the gut mycobiome as potential therapies for severe asthma. The review concludes by emphasizing the necessity for further research into the role of the gut mycobiome in asthma to deepen our understanding of these complex interactions.
... In the current study, proprietary 1,3/1,6 β-glucans extracted from baker's yeast cell wall were incorporated into extruded kibble diets for adult Labrador Retrievers. Previous research on this specific β-glucan product in adult humans has been linked to reduced upper respiratory infection and allergy symptoms (Talbott and Talbott, 2012;Talbott et al., 2013;Fuller et al., 2017). These outcomes align with companion animal immunomodulatory goals, but incorporation into kibble diet presents challenges in preserving β-glucan presence and bioactivity. ...
Yeast-derived 1,3/1,6 beta-glucans may alter host immunity to produce robust and quickly resolved responses that align with companion animal health goals. In adult dogs, immunomodulation by yeast 1,3/1,6 beta-glucans in extruded kibble diet have not been well-documented. The study objective was to evaluate systemic immune responses in dogs fed kibble diets with two yeast 1,3/1,6 beta-glucans doses before and after vaccine challenge. Twenty-four adult Labrador Retrievers were assigned to 3 dietary treatments consisting of a basal diet (control) supplemented with 0.012 or 0.023% (0.5 or 1X, respectively) yeast 1,3/1,6 beta-glucan with equal sex representation within each treatment (8 dogs/diet). Animals were fed experimental diets for a 29d acclimation period, after which baseline blood samples were collected before administration of a combination canine distemper virus, parvovirus, and adenovirus-2 vaccine. Blood samples were collected weekly for 21d following vaccination with whole blood for CBC analysis, serum for titer and cytokine assays, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) isolated for flow cytometric immune cell profiling. Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure with diet and timepoint fixed effects. Serum titer was analyzed by Kruskal-Wallis test (SAS 9.4; P≤0.05). Prior to vaccination, beta-glucan diets did not affect serum cytokines, antibody titer, or immune cell populations. In the first 7 days post-vaccination (dpv), PBMC CD21 low B cells increased in 36.5-58.1% in all groups but the magnitude of change was lesser in the 0.5X beta-glucan diet resulting in 25.6% lower CD21 low populations compared to control-fed dogs (P=0.007). By 21dpv, B cell populations recovered to baseline levels in dogs fed 1X beta-glucan, but CD21 high cells remained elevated 50.5% in dogs fed 0.5X beta-glucan diets compared to baseline (P<0.0001). While no differences in serum titer or cytokines were observed, feeding both beta-glucan diets maintained stable blood monocytes whereas a 53.0% decrease between baseline and 14dpv was observed in control-fed dogs (P=0.01). Collectively, these outcomes suggest that a 1X dose of 1,3/1,6 yeast beta-glucan in extruded kibble diets altered monocytes associated with trained immunity, did not reduce PBMC CD21 low B cell responsiveness, and simultaneously contributed to B cell population resolution by 21dpv in adult dogs. Additional research to assess the functionality of these changes is needed.
... β-glucan supplementation may be also associated with defense against infection in adults and the elderly [199,200]. In particular, there is some evidence that adults suffering from allergies benefit from β-glucan supplementation to reduce symptom severity [201]. Very few studies have been performed on autoimmune diseases; however, an extract derived from Agaricus blazei was tested in inflammatory bowel diseases, with modest results on inflammatory cytokines or clinical symptoms [202,203]. ...
β-glucans are a diverse group of polysaccharides composed of β-1,3 or β-(1,3-1,4) linked glucose monomers. They are mainly synthesized by fungi, plants, seaweed and bacteria, where they carry out structural, protective and energy storage roles. Because of their unique physicochemical properties, they have important applications in several industrial, biomedical and biotechnological processes. β-glucans are also major bioactive molecules with marked immunomodulatory and metabolic properties. As such, they have been the focus of many studies attesting to their ability to, among other roles, fight cancer, reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and control diabetes. The physicochemical and functional profiles of β-glucans are deeply influenced by their molecular structure. This structure governs β-glucan interaction with multiple β-glucan binding proteins, triggering myriad biological responses. It is then imperative to understand the structural properties of β-glucans to fully reveal their biological roles and potential applications. The deconstruction of β-glucans is a result of β-glucanase activity. In addition to being invaluable tools for the study of β-glucans, these enzymes have applications in numerous biotechnological and industrial processes, both alone and in conjunction with their natural substrates. Here, we review potential applications for β-glucans and β-glucanases, and explore how their functionalities are dictated by their structure.
... 1-а група 2-а група ми захворюваннями, але в основному ці дослідження стосувалися дорослих пацієнтів. У своїй роботі Shawn і співавтори показали ефективність застосування бетаглюкана у дорослих пацієнтів з АР з сенсибілізацією до амброзії [34]. ...
Topicality: Beta-glucans are a group of biologically active polysaccharides of natural origin with a proven pleiotropic immunomodulatory effect. In vitro experiments as well as animal and human clinical studies proved the importance of beta-glucans in the treatment and prevention of allergic diseases. This opens up new prospects for the use of this widespread and popular group of natural substances. Aim: to investigate whether the addition of "Bewell®" can alleviate the symptoms of seasonal AR in children sensitized to ragweed during flowering and improve their quality of life. Materials and methods: The study involved 30 patients (12 girls, 18 boys) aged from 6 to 12 years with a verified diagnosis of seasonal allergic rhinitis. Clinical manifestations of rhinoconjunctivitis were evaluated according to T5SS scale, quality of life (QOL) – according to Paediatric Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (PRQLQ). Results: The study found that administration of "Bewell®" in the complex therapy of seasonal allergic rhinitis significantly reduced rhinoconjunctival manifestations (p<0.001). The surveyed patients reduced consumption of antihistamines. After a treatment course, a decrease in the PRQLQ score was detected for such parameters as: irritability, need to wake up at night due to nasal congestion, need to take medications to relieve AR symptoms such as antihistamines or inhaled corticosteroids, which indicated an increase in the quality of life of patients after the therapy. The use of a complex of parameters to evaluate the therapy effectiveness showed that the use of beta-1,3/1,6-glucan ("Bewell®") is promising for reducing AR symptoms in children, leading to their rapid regression, improving the quality of life and effective relief of AR symptoms. Administration of "Bewell®" reduces the need for concomitant therapy and helps to reduce the drug load.
... Apart from the immune response to pathogens, supplementation with beta-(1 → 3,1 → 6)-D-glucans modulates allergic reactions ( Table 2). Ragweed allergy sufferers 41 and subjects with a history of cedar pollinosis 16 reported alleviation of allergy symptoms such as sneezing, nose-blowing and tears. Furthermore, their overall physical health, quality of life (QOL) 41 and daily functionality 16 were improved. ...
... Ragweed allergy sufferers 41 and subjects with a history of cedar pollinosis 16 reported alleviation of allergy symptoms such as sneezing, nose-blowing and tears. Furthermore, their overall physical health, quality of life (QOL) 41 and daily functionality 16 were improved. At the cellular and molecular levels, there is evidence supporting the potential suppressive effect on allergic inflammation markers. ...
... RCTs with daily supplementation with one or two capsules of Wellmune WGP® (250 mg or 500 mg) for four weeks detected increased healthy subjects' ratings of vigor and decreased tension, depression, anger, fatigue, and confusion. 33,41 Moreover, this yeast-derived beta-glucan improved global mood states as well as physical health, energy, and emotional well-being. 41 Consistent with these results were the outcomes of trials studying the effect of the same beta-glucan supplement on moderately to highly stressed subjects for one and three months, and showed similar changes in psychological and emotional factors. ...
Introduction:
Beta-glucans are polysaccharides that exhibit a wide range of biological properties as a result of their varying chemical composition. Like all dietary fibers, they avoid catabolism in the upper gastrointestinal tract, and they reach the large intestine undigested. There, they undergo fermentation by the gut microbiota, a process that has potential beneficial effects for the host. The aim of this systematic review is to assess the effects of consumption of beta-(1 → 3,1 → 6)-d-glucans, naturally found in the cell walls of fungi, on health outcomes.
Methods:
A comprehensive literature search was performed on PubMed, Cochrane Library and Web of Science to retrieve studies that applied randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to investigate the impact of exclusive oral administration of fungal beta-glucans in any form and at any dosage to healthy subjects or patients.
Results:
Thirty-four RCTs, of the 917 records retrieved in total, met the eligibility criteria and are included in the present review. The sources of fungal beta-glucans were Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Aureobasidium pullulans, Pleurotus ostreatus, Lentinula edodes and Ganoderma lucidum, and the dosage of supplementation ranged from 2.5 to 1000 mg daily for up to 6.5 months. The primary physiological outcome of the majority of the interventions was immunomodulation, which resulted in (a) strengthened immune defense that reduces the incidence and symptoms of cold, flu and other respiratory infections and (b) improvement of allergic symptoms. However, the findings on the induction of immune response alterations were inconsistent at the cellular and molecular levels. Another aspect is psychological wellbeing, as the cohorts that received the polysaccharides of interest reported improvement in their mood states as well as amelioration of overall wellbeing. At the same time, it might also be useful as a complementary agent to patients undergoing cancer therapies. Furthermore, supplements containing beta-(1 → 3,1 → 6)-d-glucan administered to overweight/obese adults might have the potential to decrease comorbid conditions associated with obesity. Notably, no adverse event causally related to glucans was recorded.
Conclusions:
Supplementation with beta-(1 → 3,1 → 6)-d-glucans is well-tolerated, and health-promoting properties are manifested primarily through the potentiation of the immune system. More studies are required to confirm their additional beneficial effects, to establish the optimal dose, and to reveal the underlying molecular mechanisms.
... The aims for both atopy prophylaxis and treatment are improvement of clinical symptoms by reversing Th2-dominant atopic phenotype to nonatopic Th1 phenotype. Immunomodulation by food supplements is a simple treatment for atopy with few side effects, as previously documented for β-glucans on symptoms of pollen allergy [14,15]. ...
Since Agaricus blazei Murill (AbM) extract reduced specific IgE and ameliorated a skewed Th1/Th2 balance in a mouse allergy model, it was tested in blood donors with self-reported, IgE-positive, birch pollen allergy and/or asthma. Sixty recruited donors were randomized in a placebo-controlled, double-blinded study with pre-seasonal, 7-week, oral supplementation with the AbM-based extract AndosanTM. Before and after the pollen season, questionnaires were answered for allergic rhino-conjunctivitis, asthma, and medication; serum IgE was measured, and Bet v 1-induced basophil activation was determined by CD63 expression. The reported general allergy and asthma symptoms and medication were significantly reduced in the AbM compared to the placebo group during pollen season. During the season, there was significant reduction in specific IgE anti-Bet v 1 and anti-t3 (birch pollen extract) levels in the AbM compared with the placebo group. While the maximal allergen concentrations needed for eliciting basophil activation before the season, changed significantly in the placebo group to lower concentrations (i.e., enhanced sensitization) after the season, these concentrations remained similar in the AndosanTM AbM extract group. Hence, the prophylactic effect of oral supplementation before the season with the AbM-based AndosanTM extract on aeroallergen-induced allergy was associated with reduced specific IgE levels during the season and basophils becoming less sensitive to allergen activation.
... Immune stimulants were used because of the immunomodulatory effect of biologically active polysaccharides. Beta-glucans are one of the most studied natural immunomodulators with confirmed pluripotent biological activities applicable in different clinical situations, both for therapy and prevention, such as respiratory tract infections [35][36][37][38] and allergic diseases [39,40]. With regard to omega-3 fatty acids supplements, the classical indications for this type of products were followed based on the key role of omega-3 PUFAs in brain development and function [41,42]. ...
A cross-sectional survey study was designed to gather information on the use of dietary supplements by Spanish pediatricians. The study questionnaire was completed by 433 pediatricians (62% men, mean age 52.5 years) throughout the country. They also provided data on 10 of their patients (n = 4304) in which synbiotics, immune stimulants, and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) had been prescribed. Synbiotics were used by 92% of pediatricians, immune stimulants by 80.4%, and omega-3 PUFAs by 75.1%. Synbiotics were mainly used combined with antibiotics (92.6%) and for gastrointestinal disorders (91.2%), immune stimulants to enhance defenses and cold prevention (87.1%), and omega-3 PUFAs to improve symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (84.8%) and concentration (80.1%). Confidence and previous experience with the product (51.6%), composition and indications of the product (43.1%), and tolerability (39.9%) were main factors involved in decision-making. Children treated with omega-3 supplements were significantly older (mean age 7.6 (3.0) years) than those treated with synbiotics (3.9 (3.9) years) or immune stimulants (3.4 (2.8) years) (P
... We found that EOD1BM ingestion promoted mental and physical health. Previous studies have indicated that β-glucan ingestion provides a baseline increase in the overall QOL and an increase in QOL for allergy patients [32,33]. Thus, the paramylon contained in EOD1BM may be a contributing factor in this effect. ...
Euglena gracilis EOD-1, a microalgal strain known for high yields of the β-1, 3-glucan paramylon, is suggested to function as a dietary fiber and enhance immunity. Here, we aimed to investigate the effects of E. gracilis EOD-1 biomass (EOD1BM) ingestion on immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibody titers in saliva, its reactivity, and the health-related quality of life (QOL) in humans. Reacting human immunoglobulin preparations and saliva with paramylon granules revealed the presence of anti-paramylon antibodies in the blood and saliva. We conducted a placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover study involving 13 healthy subjects who ingested the placebo or EOD1BM for 4 weeks. Saliva was collected from each subject before and after ingestion, and IgA titers and E. gracilis EOD-1 paramylon (EOD1PM) reactivity were compared. In the EOD1BM Ingestion group, the anti-EOD1PM IgA content and titer increased after EOD1BM ingestion. No such change was observed in the Placebo group. Furthermore, the health-related QOL, especially mental health, increased in the EOD1BM Ingestion group. Thus, EOD1BM ingestion led to the production of paramylon (PM)-specific IgA antibody and increased salivary IgA antibody titers. We demonstrate that EOD1BM ingestion enhanced the immunity in the mucosal surface, evoked an antigen-specific response, and increased the health-related QOL, thereby contributing to health improvement.
... In another study, four weeks of glucan supplementation resulted in alleviated symptoms and increased physical health. Surprisingly, the serum levels of IgE remained unchanged [114]. Some authors affirmed that glucan supplementation can improve, or even prevent, symptoms of allergic rhinitis and upper respiratory tract infections [115,116], as well as some other allergic symptoms such as elevated production of IgE antibodies [117,118]. ...
Glucans are part of a group of biologically active natural molecules and are steadily gaining strong attention not only as an important food supplement, but also as an immunostimulant and potential drug. This paper represents an up-to-date review of glucans (β-1,3-glucans) and their role in various immune reactions and the treatment of cancer. With more than 80 clinical trials evaluating their biological effects, the question is not if glucans will move from food supplement to widely accepted drug, but how soon.
