Abstract:

Based on the statistical analysis of relevant literature about glucan, the different effects on modified methods
affecting the conformation of β-glucan in aqueous solutions have been reviewed. The physical modified methods include
ultrasound, irradiation, microwave and other methods, which have less impact on the conformation of β-glucan in solution.
The chemical modified methods include carboxymethyl, sulfated and phosphoric esterification, which could increase the
flexibility and stiffness of β-glucan chain and cause the following conformations present in solution, extended flexible chain,
semi-stiff chain or triple helix chain. Biological modified methods mainly refer to enzymatic method. After β-glucanase
treatment, oat β-glucan exists as random coil in solution. Moreover, the existing problems in the research of modified β-glucan
conformation and its future development tendencies are proposed.

Key words: &beta, -glucan；modification；conformation transition