A Report on Fungal (1→3)-α-d-glucans: Properties, Functions and Application

Abstract

The cell walls of fungi are composed of glycoproteins, chitin, and α- and β-glucans. Although there are many reports on β-glucans, α-glucan polysaccharides are not yet fully understood. This review characterizes the physicochemical properties and functions of (1→3)-α-d-glucans. Particular attention has been paid to practical application and the effect of glucans in various respects, taking into account unfavourable effects and potential use. The role of α-glucans in plant infection has been proven, and collected facts have confirmed the characteristics of Aspergillus fumigatus infection associated with the presence of glucan in fungal cell wall. Like β-glucans, there are now evidence that α-glucans can also stimulate the immune system. Moreover, α-d-glucans have the ability to induce mutanases and can thus decompose plaque.

Keywords: (1→3)-α-d-glucans; cell walls; fungi; polysaccharides.

Figure 1

Structure of fungal cell walls by Grün [3].

Figure 2

Mutual transformations of crystalline/polymorphic forms of (1→3)-α-d-glucans, based on Jelsma et al. [13].

Figure 3

Changes in the structure of the fungus cell wall during plant infection, according to Geoghegan et al. [117].