Posted on 02/20/2025 8:24:58 PM PST by ConservativeMind
A component found in all fungi may provide a shield against flu-related lung damage, according to a new study.
A team of scientists demonstrated that beta-glucan, administered to mice before their exposure to influenza, can reduce lung damage, improve lung function and lower the risk of illness and death.
Beta-glucan is found in all fungi, including mushrooms and yeast, as well as grains like oats and barley. The scientists discovered that a unique structure of this component can boost defenses against pathogens.
While most research focuses on stopping the virus from replicating, this study explored how to regulate the body's immunity to infection, a concept known as "disease tolerance." The researchers discovered that beta-glucan significantly enhanced flu survival rates by modulating immune responses and preventing severe lung inflammation, a common cause of fatality.
These results highlight beta-glucan as a promising therapy for influenza and other emerging viral pathogens, said the scientists.
"It is remarkable how beta-glucan can reprogram certain immune cells, such as neutrophils, to control excessive inflammation in the lung," said Nargis Khan.
"Neutrophils are traditionally known for causing inflammation, but beta-glucan has the ability to shift their role to reduce it," added Kim Tran,
Most flu-related deaths aren't caused by the virus itself, but by an overreaction of the immune system, said the researchers. This suggests the true danger lies in the host's own immune response.
"Beta-glucan is found in the cell walls of all fungi, including some that live in and on our bodies as part of the human microbiome," explained Divangahi. "It is tempting to hypothesize that the levels and composition of fungi in an individual could influence how their immune system responds to infections, in part because of beta-glucan."
(Excerpt) Read more at medicalxpress.com ...
It appears to help stop an immune system overreaction to viruses.
One Type of Fiber Could Have Weight Loss Benefits Similar to Ozempic.
Research on the gut microbiome has triggered a 'revolution' in nutritional science, and in the last few years, dietary fiber has become the "new protein" – added to foods in abundance to feed our gut and boost our health.
A recent study on mice, however, suggests not all fiber supplements are equally beneficial.
A form that is readily found in oats and barley, called beta-glucan, can control blood sugar and assist in weight loss among mice fed a high-fat diet.
Researchers at the University of Arizona (UA) and the University of Vienna say it is the only type of fiber supplement they tested that decreased a mouse's fat content and body weight within 18 weeks.
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Bkmk
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