Effect of Zymosan on Hepatic Drug Metabolism in Mice. II. Identification of Active Component of Yeast Cell Walls

Abstract

Three glucan and a mannan preparations from baker's yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) were examined for their effects on aminopyrine N-demethylase activity and cytochrome P-450 content of liver, and phagocytic activity in mice. Dextran and pustulan were also examined. Among the polysaccharides tested, insoluble glucan mostly decreased cytochrome P-450 content and aminopyrine N-demethylase activity, and stimulated phagocytic activity. Alkaline soluble glucan, mannan, and pustulan decreased a little of cytochrome P-450 at high dose, whereas water-soluble glucan residue produced by acetolysis affected neither cytochrome P-450 content nor phagocytosis.