Mannan

Mannan is a polysaccharide, a type of complex carbohydrate, composed of mannose monosaccharide units linked together. It is a common component of the cell walls of fungi and yeasts, where it plays a structural role. Mannan can also be found in the cell walls of some bacteria and plants, though its prevalence and specific structure may vary. In biological contexts, mannan is recognized by the immune system and can trigger immune responses. This interaction is significant in understanding host-pathogen interactions and in the development of diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies for fungal infections.

The structure of mannan can be linear or branched, depending on the organism and the specific enzymes involved in its synthesis. The type of glycosidic linkage between mannose units also contributes to its structural diversity. For instance, alpha-mannans and beta-mannans exist, differing in the orientation of the bond. Mannan's presence in the cell walls of pathogens like Candida albicans makes it a target for immune cells such as macrophages and dendritic cells. Research into mannan and its derivatives is ongoing, exploring its potential applications in areas such as vaccine development, drug delivery systems, and as a biomarker for certain diseases. Its presence in various biological systems highlights its importance as a fundamental biomolecule.