Original Article
Pankaj Kumar, Jain KK, Munilku
Abstract
Immunostimulants are considered as an effective tool for enhancing immune status of cultured organisms. Among different immunostimulants used in aquaculture practices, Alpha-glucan is one of the promising immunostimulant, which is a homopolysaccharide of glucosemolecule linked by the glycoside bond. It forms the major constituents of cell wall of some plants, fungi, bacteria, mushroom, yeast, and seaweeds. Major attention on Alpha-glucan was captivated with the gain in knowledge on its receptors and the mechanismof action. The receptor present inside the animal body recognizes and binds to Alpha-glucan, which in turn renders the animal with high resistance and enhanced immune response. This review highlights Alpha-glucan as an immunostimulant, its effective dosages, and route of administration and furthermore provides an outline on role of Alpha-glucan in enhancing growth, survival, and protection against infectious pathogens pertaining to fishes and shellfishes. Study also summarizes the effect of Alpha-glucan on its receptors, recognition of proteins, immune-related enzymes, immune-related gene expression and their mechanisms of action.