Rapid Immune Modulation after Consuming <i>Euglena gracilis</i> Whole Algae Involving Altered Responses to Ex Vivo Immune Challenges: A Placebo-Controlled Cross-Over Trial

Abstract

Euglena gracilis (EG) microalgae has immune-modulating properties, partly due to its unique intracellular β-glucan-granules (paramylon). We evaluated the effects of EG consumption on immune status in vivo, ex vivo, and in vitro. A placebo-controlled cross-over study evaluated acute immune surveillance, followed by a 1-week open-label phase. Immune training was documented using ex vivo immune challenges and cytokine profiles. In vitro testing of monocytes compared the effects of EG to pure β-glucan. Compared to placebo, EG consumption triggered increased T cell numbers in the blood circulation (1 h: p p p p p p p p p p p < 0.01). EG-mediated training of innate immunity, combined with long-term modulation of inflammation, suggests a nutraceutical strategy for preventive immune support.

Keywords

• anti-inflammatory
• β-glucan
• CD25
• CD69
• <i>Euglena gracilis</i>
• immune surveillance