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Yeast Cell Wall
Definition of Yeast Cell Wall
Cell Wall represents 26 - 32 % of the dry weight of Saccharomyces and other kinds of yeast. This Cell Wall is
a structural component and gives the yeast its shape and rigidity.
Properties of Yeast Cell Wall
Yeast Cell Wall is a non-specific stimulator of the immune system of both man and animals. Numerous
scientific studies have shown that when ingested orally Yeast Beta-Glucan - a constituent of Yeast Cell Wall can stimulate the cells of the immune system (macrophages) and help to overcome bacterial infections.
Mannan-Oligo-Saccharide (MOS), another constituent of Yeast Cell Wall, has been demonstrated to prevent
diarrhoea in weaning pigs. MOS binds to pathogenic bacteria in the gut and then carries them through and
out of the intestinal tract. MOS also has prebiotic activity and can serve as a nutrient source for the growth of
beneficial bacteria in the colon.
Yeast Cell Wall is also applied in the wine industry : its ability to bind undesirable components allows it to
prevent and cure stuck fermentations.
Production process of Yeast Cell Wall
Partially purified Yeast Cell Wall is commercially available as co-product of the production of Yeast Extract.
After the yeast is autolysed, the insoluble Cell Wall is separated from the soluble Yeast Extract by
centrifugation, and then spray dried or roller dried.
Main components of Yeast Cell Wall
The Yeast Cell Wall is made of 30 - 60 % polysaccharides (beta-glucan and mannan sugar polymers), 15 30 % proteins, 5 - 20 % lipids and a small amount of chitin. Most of the protein is linked to the Mannan-OligoSaccharides (MOS) and is referred to as the Mannoprotein complex.
Typically Yeast Cell Wall contains 15 - 30 % Beta-Glucan and 15 - 30 % MOS.