(1 -->3)-beta -D-Glucans have been recognized as a potential causative agen
t responsible for bioacrosol-induced respiratory symptoms observed in both
indoor and occupational environments. A specific enzyme immunoassay was dev
eloped to quantify (1 -->6) branched, (1 -->3)-beta -D-glucans in environme
ntal samples. The assay was based on the use of a high-affinity receptor (g
alactosyl ceramide) specific for (1 -->3)-beta -D-glucans as a capture reag
ent and a monoclonal antibody specific for fungal cell wall P-D-glucans as
a detector reagent. The assay, was highly specific for (1 -->6) branched, (
1 -->3)-beta -D-glucans (such as that from Saccharomyces cerevisiae) and di
d not show any response at 200 ng/ml to curdlan, laminarin, pustulan, dextr
an, mannan, carboxymethyl cellulose, and endotoxins. The detection level wa
s 0.8 ng/ml for baker's yeast glucan and Betafectin. A coefficient of varia
tion of 7.8% was obtained for (1 -->3)-beta -D-glucans in house dust sample
s. Metal working fluids spiked with (1 -->3)-beta -D-glucans inhibited the
glucan assay. Because the assay is specific for (1 -->6) branched, (1 -->3)
-beta -D-glucans and is sensitive and reproducible, it will be useful for t
he investigation of health effects from exposure to this class of biologica
lly active molecules.