Effect of zymosan on hepatic drug metabolism in mics. II. Identification of active component of yeast cell walls.

Abstract

Three glycan and a mannan preparation 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 was also examined. Among the polysaccharides tested, insoluble 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.