Wellmune WPG, an immune health ingredient for foods, beverages and supplements from Eagan, Minn.-based Biothera, uses distinct receptors and signaling pathways in certain white blood cells to induce cytotoxic function. The research was published in the latest issue of Glycobiology.

The new research describes how structurally different forms of yeast beta glucans use different receptors and associated signaling pathways to activate innate immune functions. Wellmune WGP is a yeast-derived beta glucan that boost innate immune cells that help keep the body healthy.

“This research further elucidates the mechanisms through which Wellmune WGP primes immune responses in key immune cells to enhance the body’s defenses,” said Don Cox, senior vice-president of Biothera’s health care group’s R.&D. “It also demonstrates that beta-glucan structure is a critical attribute in eliciting biological effects.”

The paper is titled, “Differential regulation of oxidative burst by distinct β-glucan-binding receptors and signaling pathways in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells.”