The procedure of isolation of high purity yeast b-Glucan follows basically the scheme of cell breakage, removal of proteins, mannans, lipids and other minor components.

 

Cell breakage can be effected through mechanical devices such as homogenizers, through boiling of the yeast cream (whole yeast), or  through autolysis. A subsequent alkaline extraction removes a substantial portion of the mannans and proteins. An acid and organic solvent extraction reduces lipid content. The resulting material is an insoluble yeast b-Glucan.

 

A partial solubilization of the b-Glucan can be achieved through different derivatisations, e.g. carboxymethylation, sulphatization or phosphatization, or through an acid or enzymatic treatment.