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Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides (GLP / beta-1,3/1,6-D-glucans)

Moderate

Mechanism of Action

GLP activates innate immune cells by binding to pattern recognition receptors — primarily Dectin-1, TLR-2, and complement receptor 3 (CR3) — on macrophages, dendritic cells, and neutrophils. This triggers downstream NF-κB and MAPK signaling, upregulating production of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-12. GLP also enhances NK cell cytotoxicity and promotes dendritic cell maturation, bridging innate and adaptive immune responses. The polysaccharide fraction Ganoderan B demonstrates significant hypoglycemic activity via enhanced hepatic glucose utilization and increased plasma insulin levels.

Research Notes

ReishiMushroom

A Cochrane meta-analysis (Jin et al., 2016) evaluated 5 RCTs and found that Reishi polysaccharides enhanced immune parameters (CD3+, CD4+, CD8+ T-cell counts, NK cell activity) in cancer patients as adjunct therapy. An RCT by Gao et al. (2003, Immunological Investigations) showed that 5.4 g/day of GLP polysaccharide extract for 12 weeks significantly increased CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ counts in advanced-stage cancer patients. Found in BOTH fruiting body and mycelium; hot-water extraction is essential to solubilize these compounds.

Found In 1 Herb

3D Molecular Structure

High-molecular-weight beta-glucans and heteropolysaccharides
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Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides (GLP / beta-1,3/1,6-D-glucans)

High-molecular-weight beta-glucans and heteropolysaccharidesComplex carbohydrate polymers that modulate immune response

Representative pattern: (C₆H₁₀O₅)ₙ

Atoms
Carbon
Oxygen

Live Research

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