Figure 2.

Simplified representation of the effects of β-glucan on immunity and cholesterol balance. (A) β-glucans interact with receptors expressed on the surface of innate immune cells and with iC3b/CR3 complement complex of opsonized cells, resulting in immune stimulation that involves innate and adaptive immunity. (B) It is hypothesized that, acting as fibers, β-glucans can form a gel on the mucosal surface of the bowel. This inhibits resorption of the biliary salts, stimulating biliary salt neo-synthesis in the liver. Increased biliary salts activate utilization of circulating cholesterol, thus reducing its levels in the blood. NK, natural killer cells; CR3, complement receptor type.