Effects of ß-(1,3-1,6)-D-glucan on irritable bowel syndrome-related colonic hypersensitivity.

ABSTRACT

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a gastrointestinal disorder characterized by chronic abdominal pain associated with altered bowel habits. Since the prevalence of IBS is very high and thus, involves elevated health-care costs, treatment of this condition by methods other than prescribed medicines could be beneficial. ß-(1,3)-D-glucan with ß-(1,6) branches (ß-glucan) has been used as a nutritional supplement for many years. In this study, we examined the effect of ß-glucan on fecal pellet output and visceral pain response in animal models of IBS. Oral administration of ß-glucan suppressed the restraint stress- or drug-induced fecal pellet output. ß-Glucan also suppressed the visceral pain response to colorectal distension. These results suggest that ß-glucan could be beneficial for the treatment and prevention of IBS.