Active Hexose Correlated Compound (AHCC) is the name used to indicate the polysaccharide extract obtained from the liquid culture of Shiitake mycelia.
The AHCC production process for the cultivation of Shiitake mycelia immersed in a liquid medium, in which saccharolytic (cellulase and glucosidase) and proteolytic (protease) enzymes act, modifying the initial composition of the fungus. After a fermentation phase and through the extraction process that includes a separation, concentration and sterilization step, the AHCC is obtained, which is immediately lyophilized for its perfect conservation.
Regarding its composition, we know that it contains a mixture of carbohydrates, amino acids, lipids and minerals and that its polysaccharide content is much higher than Shiitake or Champión del Sol. AAHCC differs from other food supplements derived from fungi because it only contains 2% beta-glucans, while alpha-glucans abound. In fact, one of the most important substances it has is α-fa-1,4-glucan, a compound partially acetylated by the enzymatic action to which the mycelia are subjected. The difference between the two is the type of bond that binds their glucose molecules. Our body does not contain enzymes to digest beta-glucans, but it does secrete the enzyme alpha-amylase, which digests alpha-glucans. In addition, the latter have a low molecular density (5,000 Daltons) that favors their assimilation at the intestinal level much more effectively than other glucans, which would justify the systemic immunopotentiating action observed after being digested and absorbed.
Therefore, this low molecular density of alpha-glucan seems to be responsible for a better absorption of the product and its unique properties. AHCC stimulates the innate and adaptive immune response, helping to eradicate infections, especially those of a viral nature.