The effect of beta-glucan on wound healing: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background wound healing involves inflammation, proliferation and remodeling, with prolonged healing times posing significant challenges. Beta-glucans, natural polysaccharides, may enhance this process. Objective To evaluate the impact of beta-glucan on wound healing. Method A systematic review of MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane Central databases was conducted. Eligible studies included randomised controlled trials, clinical trials, cohort, and case-control studies comparing beta-glucan to other treatments. Only English-language studies were included, with no time restrictions. Screening and assessment were independently performed by two reviewers using Rayyan. The risk of bias was evaluated using the ROB-2 tool and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). A meta-analysis was performed on the included studies. Result Beta-glucans promote immune cell activation and tissue repair, accelerating inflammation resolution. The meta-analysis of chronic wounds included two studies comprising a total of 354 participants, demonstrating a twofold increase in chronic wound healing rates at 12 weeks with the application of topical beta-glucan. In contrast, the analysis of acute wounds included two studies with a combined sample size of 290 participants. However, the findings for acute wounds were inconclusive. Conclusion Beta-glucan demonstrates potential as an adjunctive therapy for chronic wounds, significantly accelerating healing rates. Its clinical utility warrants further exploration. Registration PROSPERO CRD42024464191.