Beta-glucans as immunomodulators in poultry: use and potential applications

Escalating consumer concerns have placed the poultry industry under mounting pressure to reduce the use of chemotherapeutic agents as feed additives. One possible alternative receiving increased attention is the use of immunomodulators such as beta-glucan. Beta-glucans belong to a group of physiologically active compounds termed biological response modifiers due to their ability to stimulate the immune system. Beta-glucans are structural components of the cell wall of many bacteria, fungi, algae and yeast as well as cereal grains. The effects of beta-glucans as active immunomodulators in mammals have been well noted; however, research concerning their impact in poultry has only recently been published. This review will begin with an avian immunology primer, and will then discuss various effects on performance and immune responses elicited by beta-glucans in poultry and their potential implications to the industry.