Common Fungal Compound May Be the Key to Fighting Deadly Flu Infections

Common Fungal Compound May Be the Key to Fighting Deadly Flu Infections

Preclinical trial reveals how beta-glucan, a compound found in all fungi, can ‘reprogram’ immune cells to combat lung inflammation. A recent study suggests that a common fungal component may help protect against flu-related lung damage. Led by Professor Maziar Divangahi from McGill’s Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and the Research Institute of the McGill [...]

Beta-glucan, which is found in fungi, appears to be able to reprogram some immune cells.

Common Mushroom Fiber May Protect Against Flu, Study Finds

The humble mushroom is a fungi with plenty of potential. Previous research has shown mushrooms can reduce depression risk, improve brain cell growth, and guard against cancer – and a new study shows they may protect against influenza too. Researchers led by a team from McGill University in Canada found that the beta-glucan fibers found in all types of mushrooms could act as a sort of barrier to flu, limiting inflammation in the lungs of mice…