ABSTRACT
While risk evaluations of environmental exposures to microbes have traditionally focused on infection, there is increasing evidence for other effects, particularly inflammation. Many microorganisms contain specific substances in or on their cell walls (microbial cell wall agents [MCWAs]), and a number of such agents have been found to have inflammagenic properties. Regarding (1→3)-β-D-glucan, an MCWA on fungi and some bacteria, much research has been devoted to its biological activities and possible relationship to diseases. This chapter will focus in the effects of (1→3)-β-D-glucan after inhalation, and extrapolate this information to evaluate the risks involved in occupational and general environments.
