Immunomodulation of human macrophages and myeloid cells by 2-substituted (1–3)-β-d-glucan from P. parvulus 2.6

β-glucans produced by eukaryotic cells and by microorganisms are known to modulate immune responses by affecting macrophage activation. Here, we have investigated the effect of purified 2-substituted (1–3)-β-d-glucan, produced by either Pediococcus parvulus 2.6 or Lactococcus lactis NZ9000[pNGTF], on the effector functions of human PMA-differentiated THP-1 cells and M1 pro-inflammatory monocyte-derived macrophages. The results reveal that this kind of β-D-glucan activates macrophages and has an anti-inflammatory effect.