Recognition of fungal glucans by pattern recognition receptors

Glucans are (1→3)-β-D linked polymers of glucose that are major constituents of fungal cells walls. Glucans are known to stimulate innate immunity and they are thought to be fungal pathogen associated molecular patterns. Several recent discoveries have dramatically increased our knowledge of the cellular and molecular biology of glucans. Among the most significant advances has been the identification and characterization of glucan specific pattern recognition receptors. This review examines the recent data on the identity, cellular distribution and binding interactions of receptors that recognize fungal glucans. Specific emphasis is placed on the role of Dectin-1 and scavenger receptors as glucan binding sites. The definitive identification and characterization of glucan specific receptors is an essential prerequisite for deciphering the cellular and molecular interactions of fungal glucans with the innate immune syste