Biothera has developed a new analytical method to characterize a key structural attribute of beta 1,3/1,6 glucans, which will aid researchers developing this immune-enhancing carbohydrate for pharmaceutical applications.

The method was presented recently to scientists at both the International Carbohydrate Symposium in Oslo, Norway, and the American Chemical Society national meeting in Philadelphia.

Beta 1,3 glucans are polysaccharides known for their ability to enhance innate immune responses. Derived from the cell walls of yeast and fungi, beta glucans can vary in terms of molecular weight, frequency of side chain branching, and the length and composition of side chains. These structural variations may affect bioactivity.

"We believe our on-going analytical chemistry programme will become the new gold standard for structural characterization of beta glucan," said Daniel Conners, Biothera chairman and founder. "It is critical to fully characterize these compounds to further our understanding of their bioactivity and, ultimately, enable the development of pharmaceuticals."

The Biothera method, which employs alkaline degradation, analyzes the length, distribution and composition of side chains that contribute to beta glucan's potency as an immune modulator.

"The new assay reflects Biothera's position as a world leader in carbohydrate chemistry," said Conners. "We are committed to pioneering beta glucan technology."

Biothera is a biotechnology company dedicated to improving immune health. The company is developing pharmaceuticals that engage the innate immune system to fight cancer.