Microbial polysaccharide: new insights for treating autoimmune diseases

Front Biosci (Schol Ed). 2010 Jan 1;2(1):256-67. doi: 10.2741/s62.

Abstract

The immunosuppressive properties of Glucuronoxylomannnan (GXM), a purified capsular polysaccharide of the opportunistic fungus Cryptococcus neoformans, have been extensively elucidated. GXM can inhibit the function of cells belonging to both the innate and adaptive immune systems, leading to inhibition of proinflammatory responses as well as of autoimmune inflammation.This review focuses on the role of GXM as a novel anti-inflammatory agent and puts in perspective the direct implications of its potential destination to clinical trials.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / immunology*
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / pharmacology
  • Autoimmune Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Autoimmune Diseases / immunology
  • Cryptococcus neoformans / chemistry*
  • Humans
  • Immunity, Cellular / drug effects*
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / immunology*
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / pharmacology
  • Immunotherapy / methods*
  • Polysaccharides / immunology*
  • Polysaccharides / pharmacology
  • T-Lymphocytes / drug effects

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Polysaccharides
  • glucuronoxylomannan