Targeting β-glucans, vital components of the Pneumocystis cell wall

beta-glucan is the most abundant polysaccharide in the cell wall of Pneumocystis jirovecii, which has attracted extensive attention because of its unique immunobiological characteristics. beta-glucan binds to various cell surface receptors, which produces an inflammatory response and accounts for its immune effects. A deeper comprehension of the processes by Pneumocystis beta-glucan recognizes its receptors, activates related signaling pathways, and regulates immunity as required. Such understanding will provide a basis for developing new therapies against Pneumocystis. Herein, we briefly review the structural composition of beta-glucans as a vital component of the Pneumocystis cell wall, the host immunity mediated by beta-glucans after their recognition, and discuss opportunities for the development of new strategies to combat Pneumocystis.

Automated summary

Beta-glucan, the most abundant polysaccharide in the cell wall of Pneumocystis jirovecii, has unique immunobiological characteristics and binds to various cell surface receptors to produce an inflammatory response and immune effects. Understanding how Pneumocystis beta-glucan recognizes its receptors, activates signaling pathways, and regulates immunity is important for developing new therapies against Pneumocystis.