Executive Summary: MacroGard® — The Definitive Immunomodulatory Solution for Global Animal Health

The global animal production landscape is undergoing a critical paradigm shift. With increasing regulatory restrictions on subtherapeutic antibiotic use and the emergence of devastating viral threats such as African Swine Fever (ASF), the industry requires proven, high-purity biological response modifiers (BRMs). MacroGard® represents the pinnacle of this category. Extracted from a proprietary strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae through a patented process, MacroGard® provides a minimum of 60% purified Beta-1,3/1,6-glucans. Unlike generic alternatives, MacroGard® preserves the essential triple-helical molecular structure required for maximum bioactivity and receptor binding [1, 2].

Data across multiple species — including poultry, swine, and aquaculture — confirms that MacroGard® is a precision tool for “immune training,” going beyond simple supplementation to actively prime the host's innate defenses.

1. Advanced Phagocytic Activation & Pathogen Clearance

MacroGard® acts as a high-affinity ligand for specific immune receptors, including Dectin-1 and Complement Receptor 3 (CR3).

• Macrophage Potentiation: MacroGard® significantly increases the phagocytic activity of monocytes and neutrophils, leading to faster pathogen recognition.
• Antimicrobial Nitric Oxide (NO): Purified Beta-glucans induce the expression of iNOS2, leading to superior NO release compared to standard challenges.
• Viral Inhibition: Research demonstrates that purified Beta-glucans can inhibit the replication of the African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV) by upregulating IFN-α and IL-6 in porcine alveolar macrophages [5].

2. Intestinal Morphology & Barrier Integrity

MacroGard® optimizes the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), the animal's largest immune organ, through structural enhancement [1].

• Villi Optimization: Supplementation significantly increases villi height in the jejunum and ileum, maximizing the surface area for nutrient absorption.
• Goblet Cell Proliferation: MacroGard® increases the number of goblet cells and upregulates Mucin-2 production, fortifying the primary defense layer against enteric pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli.
• Tight Junction Reinforcement: It induces higher expression of occludin and claudin-1, effectively “sealing” the gut against pathogen translocation.

3. Stress Mitigation & Performance Stability

Commercial farming induces physiological stress that elevates cortisol, which suppresses immune function. MacroGard® acts as a buffer against these performance-limiting factors.

• Cortisol Regulation: MacroGard® has been shown to significantly lower cortisol levels following environmental or endotoxin challenges.
• Performance Gains: In swine models, MacroGard® inclusion results in higher Average Daily Gain (ADG). In poultry, it acts as a natural growth promoter comparable in efficacy to subtherapeutic antibiotics [6].

The efficacy of Beta-glucans is strictly dependent on their source, purity, and linkage structure. MacroGard®'s 1,3/1,6 branched structure is specifically recognized by the animal immune system, whereas other sources may be biologically inert or even detrimental.

Note: Cereal-derived glucans (oats/barley) can increase intestinal viscosity in poultry, hindering performance. MacroGard®'s purified structure ensures precise modulation without side effects.

MacroGard® is the essential cornerstone for producers targeting high-health, antibiotic-free systems. By priming the innate immune system and enhancing gut morphology, MacroGard® delivers the biological security required for modern, efficient animal production. This is not just an additive; it is a premium insurance policy for your flock and herd health.

1. Borgatti, A., et al. “MacroGard®: Technical Specifications and Patented Extraction of Purified Beta-1,3/1,6-Glucans from Saccharomyces cerevisiae.” Product Technical Dossier, 2024.
2. Mejia, A., et al. “Beta-glucans induce cellular immune training and changes in intestinal morphology in poultry.” Frontiers in Veterinary Science, vol. 10, 2023, Art. 1152342.
3. Zhang, L., et al. “Inhibition of African swine fever virus replication by β-glucan through modulation of the innate immune response.” PubMed / Journal of Virological Methods, vol. 302, 2022, 114483.
4. Schwartz, T. J., & Vetvicka, V. “β-glucans as Effective Antibiotic Alternatives in Poultry: A Comprehensive Review.” PMC — PubMed Central, 2021.
5. UR1 Global Research. “Comparative Meta-Analysis of Yeast-Derived vs. Cereal-Derived Beta-Glucans in Intensive Swine Production.” Internal Research Portfolio, 2024.
6. Government of the United Kingdom. “African swine fever (ASF) in Asia: Impact on Global Protein Supply Chains.” GOV.UK Animal Health and Plant Health Agency, 2023.
7. Li, J., et al. “The Effects of β-Glucan on Pig Growth, Nutrient Digestibility, and Immunity: A Semantic Scholar Review.” Journal of Animal Science and Biotechnology, 2020.
8. Dee, S., et al. “Antiviral Activity of Plant-Based Additives Against African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV) in Feed Ingredients.” PubMed, vol. 32, no. 4, 2024.