• The potential of β-glucan, as a natural immune booster, in fighting parasitic infections
  • Mahla Noorzaei,1,* Hossein Torkashvand,2 Faride Khanabadi,3 Sahar Nasehi,4 TAHER ELMI,5
    1. Department of Laboratory Sciences, Babol Branch, Islamic Azad University, Babol, Iran.
    2. Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
    3. Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran.
    4. Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Islamic Azad University, Babol Branch, Babol, Iran.
    5. Infectious Diseases Research Center (IDRC), Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran.


  • Introduction: B-glucan, a natural polysaccharide, has been recognized for its strong ability to boost both innate and adaptive immune responses. This research demonstrates that B-glucan enhances immune functions by activating macrophages, neutrophils, and natural killer cells, as well as stimulating the production of crucial cytokines like interleukin-12 and interferon-gamma. These immune responses are essential for controlling various parasites, including protozoa, and helminths. B-glucan’s ability to work synergistically with traditional antiparasitic treatments enhances their efficacy, making it a promising adjunct therapy.
  • Methods: In the present review, we searched the PubMed, ProQuest, Scopus, Embase, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Wiley databases for relevant articles. The keywords used in the search were B-glucan, Parasitic infections, Protozoa, Helminths, Immune functions, In vivo, and In vitro.
  • Results: Studies show B-glucan can significantly improve immune function against parasites like Leishmania spp., Toxoplasma gondii, and Eimeria spp. It stimulates macrophages, natural killer cells, and antibody production. When used as an adjuvant, B-glucan significantly enhances the immune system’s response to vaccines, improving protection against parasitic infections in experimental models. Research suggests B-glucan can be used in vaccines against parasites, offering long-term protection.
  • Conclusion: B-glucan holds significant promise as a safe and effective approach to fighting parasitic infections. Its ability to boost immunity, work alongside existing treatments, and potentially contribute to vaccine development makes it a valuable candidate for further research and development.
  • Keywords: B-glucan, Parasitic infections, Protozoa, Helminths.