CAS 9012-72-0: D-Glucan

D-Glucan

In addition to the β-glucans from cereals, another group of β-glucans are found in the cell walls of yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), bacteria and fungi, with significantly differing physicochemical properties dependent on source. Typically these β-glucans form a linear backbone with 1,3 β-glycosidic bonds but vary with respect to molecular mass, solubility, viscosity, branching structure, and gelation properties, causing diverse physiological effects in animals.  They are structural components in the cell walls of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and to provide stability, they have a few b-1,6 branch points that lock into other cell wall components (1 in 5 glucose residues). So in any extraction you get a few 1,6 linked glucose residues ~5%. The yeast and fungal β-glucans have been investigated for their ability to modulate the immune system. They are also used in various nutraceutical and cosmetic products, as texturing agents, and as fibre supplements. Their detailed molecular structures are key to the physical properties that they exhibit, such as water solubility, viscosity, gelation properties and physiological functions. The image was kindly provided by Dr. Chris Lawson.