An insight into anti-inflammatory effects of fungal beta-glucans

beta-Glucans from fungi exhibit a broad spectrum of biological activities including anti-tumor, immune-modulating and anti-inflammatory properties. The anti-inflammatory effect is mediated through the regulation of various inflammatory cytokines, such as nitric oxide (NO), interleukins (ILs), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF)-alpha, interferon gamma (INF)-gamma as well as non-cytokine mediator, prostaglandin E-2 (PGE(2)). Up to now, the anti-inflammatory activity of beta-glucans has received little attention. It is worthwhile to investigate the anti-inflammatory properties of fungal beta-glucans in a separate review, discussing in vitro studies, animal studies and human studies on anti-inflammation effects of fungal beta-glucans, as well as the structure-anti-inflammatory activity relationships.