1
|
Apangu GP, Frisk CA, Adams-Groom B, Petch GM, Hanson M, Skjøth CA. Using qPCR and microscopy to assess the impact of harvesting and weather conditions on the relationship between Alternaria alternata and Alternaria spp. spores in rural and urban atmospheres. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2023:10.1007/s00484-023-02480-w. [PMID: 37191729 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-023-02480-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Alternaria is a plant pathogen and human allergen. Alternaria alternata is one of the most abundant fungal spores in the air. The purpose of this study was to examine whether Alternaria spp. spore concentrations can be used to predict the abundance and spatio-temporal pattern of A. alternata spores in the air. This was investigated by testing the hypothesis that A. alternata dominates airborne Alternaria spp. spores and varies spatio-temporally. Secondarily, we aimed at investigating the relationship between airborne Alternaria spp. spores and the DNA profile of A. alternata spores between two proximate (~ 7 km apart) sites. These were examined by sampling Alternaria spp. spores using Burkard 7-day and cyclone samplers for the period 2016-2018 at Worcester and Lakeside campuses of the University of Worcester, UK. Daily Alternaria spp. spores from the Burkard traps were identified using optical microscopy whilst A. alternata from the cyclone samples was detected and quantified using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). The results showed that either A. alternata or other Alternaria species spores dominate the airborne Alternaria spore concentrations, generally depending on weather conditions. Furthermore, although Alternaria spp. spore concentrations were similar for the two proximate sites, A. alternata spore concentrations significantly varied for those sites and it is highly likely that the airborne samples contained large amounts of small fragments of A. alternata. Overall, the study shows that there is a higher abundance of airborne Alternaria allergen than reported by aerobiological networks and the majority is likely to be from spore and hyphal fragments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Godfrey Philliam Apangu
- School of Science and the Environment, University of Worcester, Henwick Grove, WR2 6AJ, Worcester, UK.
- Protecting Crops and the Environment, Rothamsted Research, West Common, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 2JQ, UK.
| | - Carl Alexander Frisk
- School of Science and the Environment, University of Worcester, Henwick Grove, WR2 6AJ, Worcester, UK
- Department of Urban Greening and Vegetation Ecology, Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research, Ås, Norway
| | - Beverley Adams-Groom
- School of Science and the Environment, University of Worcester, Henwick Grove, WR2 6AJ, Worcester, UK
| | - Geoffrey M Petch
- School of Science and the Environment, University of Worcester, Henwick Grove, WR2 6AJ, Worcester, UK
| | - Mary Hanson
- School of Science and the Environment, University of Worcester, Henwick Grove, WR2 6AJ, Worcester, UK
- Edith Cowan University, 270 Joondalup Drive, Joondalup, WA, 6027, Australia
| | - Carsten Ambelas Skjøth
- School of Science and the Environment, University of Worcester, Henwick Grove, WR2 6AJ, Worcester, UK
- Department of Environmental Science, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Anees-Hill S, Douglas P, Pashley CH, Hansell A, Marczylo EL. A systematic review of outdoor airborne fungal spore seasonality across Europe and the implications for health. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 818:151716. [PMID: 34800445 PMCID: PMC8919338 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.151716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Fungal spores make up a significant proportion of organic matter within the air. Allergic sensitisation to fungi is associated with conditions including allergic fungal airway disease. This systematic review analyses outdoor fungal spore seasonality across Europe and considers the implications for health. Seventy-four studies met the inclusion criteria, the majority of which (n = 64) were observational sampling studies published between 1978 and 2020. The most commonly reported genera were the known allergens Alternaria and Cladosporium, measured in 52 and 49 studies, respectively. Both displayed statistically significant increased season length in south-westerly (Mediterranean) versus north-easterly (Atlantic and Continental) regions. Although there was a trend for reduced peak or annual Alternaria and Cladosporium spore concentrations in more northernly locations, this was not statistically significant. Peak spore concentrations of Alternaria and Cladosporium exceeded clinical thresholds in nearly all locations, with median peak concentrations of 665 and 18,827 per m3, respectively. Meteorological variables, predominantly temperature, precipitation and relative humidity, were the main factors associated with fungal seasonality. Land-use was identified as another important factor, particularly proximity to agricultural and coastal areas. While correlations of increased season length or decreased annual spore concentrations with increasing average temperatures were reported in multi-decade sampling studies, the number of such studies was too small to make any definitive conclusions. Further, up-to-date studies covering underrepresented geographical regions and fungal taxa (including the use of modern molecular techniques), and the impact of land-use and climate change will help address remaining knowledge gaps. Such knowledge will help to better understand fungal allergy, develop improved fungal spore calendars and forecasts with greater geographical coverage, and promote increased awareness and management strategies for those with allergic fungal disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Anees-Hill
- Centre for Environmental Health and Sustainability, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7LW, UK; The National Institute of Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Environmental Exposures and Health, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7LW, UK.
| | - Philippa Douglas
- The National Institute of Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Environmental Exposures and Health, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7LW, UK; Environmental Hazards and Emergencies Department, UK Health Security Agency, Harwell Campus, Chilton, Oxfordshire OX11 0RQ, UK.
| | - Catherine H Pashley
- The National Institute of Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Environmental Exposures and Health, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7LW, UK; Department of Respiratory Sciences, Institute for Lung Health, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK.
| | - Anna Hansell
- Centre for Environmental Health and Sustainability, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7LW, UK; The National Institute of Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Environmental Exposures and Health, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7LW, UK.
| | - Emma L Marczylo
- The National Institute of Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Environmental Exposures and Health, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7LW, UK; Toxicology Department, UK Health Security Agency, Harwell Campus, Chilton, Oxfordshire OX11 0RQ, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Apangu GP, Frisk CA, Petch GM, Muggia L, Pallavicini A, Hanson M, Skjøth CA. Environmental DNA reveals diversity and abundance of Alternaria species in neighbouring heterogeneous landscapes in Worcester, UK. AEROBIOLOGIA 2022; 38:457-481. [PMID: 36471880 PMCID: PMC9715499 DOI: 10.1007/s10453-022-09760-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Alternaria is a pathogenic and allergenic fungus affecting 400 plant species and 334 million people globally. This study aimed at assessing the diversity of Alternaria species in airborne samples collected from closely located (7 km apart) and heterogeneous sites (rural, urban and unmanaged grassland) in Worcester and Lakeside, the UK. A secondary objective was to examine how the ITS1 subregion varies from ITS2 in Alternaria species diversity and composition. Airborne spores were collected using Burkard 7-day and multi-vial Cyclone samplers for the period 5 July 2016-9 October 2019. Air samples from the Cyclone were amplified using the ITS1and ITS2 subregions and sequenced using Illumina MiSeq platform whereas those from the Burkard sampler were identified and quantified using optical microscopy. Optical microscopy and eDNA revealed a high abundance of Alternaria in the rural, urban and unmanaged sites. ITS1 and ITS2 detected five and seven different Alternaria species at the three sampling sites, respectively. A. dactylidicola, A. metachromatica and A. infectoria were the most abundant. The rural, urban and unmanaged grassland sites had similar diversity (PERMANOVA) of the species due to similarity in land use and proximity of the sites. Overall, the study showed that heterogeneous and neighbouring sites with similar land uses can have similar Alternaria species. It also demonstrated that an eDNA approach can complement the classical optical microscopy method in providing more precise information on fungal species diversity in an environment for targeted management. Similar studies can be replicated for other allergenic and pathogenic fungi. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10453-022-09760-9.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Godfrey Philliam Apangu
- School of Science and the Environment, University of Worcester, Henwick Grove, WR2 6AJ Worcester UK
- Present Address: Protecting Crops and the Environment, Rothamsted Research, West Common, Harpenden, AL5 2JQ Hertfordshire UK
| | - Carl Alexander Frisk
- School of Science and the Environment, University of Worcester, Henwick Grove, WR2 6AJ Worcester UK
- Present Address: Department of Urban Greening and Vegetation Ecology, Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research, Ås, Norway
| | - Geoffrey M. Petch
- School of Science and the Environment, University of Worcester, Henwick Grove, WR2 6AJ Worcester UK
| | - Lucia Muggia
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Via Giorgieri 10, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Alberto Pallavicini
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Via Giorgieri 10, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Mary Hanson
- School of Science and the Environment, University of Worcester, Henwick Grove, WR2 6AJ Worcester UK
| | - Carsten Ambelas Skjøth
- School of Science and the Environment, University of Worcester, Henwick Grove, WR2 6AJ Worcester UK
- Department of Environmental Science, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Habschied K, Krstanović V, Zdunić Z, Babić J, Mastanjević K, Šarić GK. Mycotoxins Biocontrol Methods for Healthier Crops and Stored Products. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:348. [PMID: 33946920 PMCID: PMC8145935 DOI: 10.3390/jof7050348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Contamination of crops with phytopathogenic genera such as Fusarium, Aspergillus, Alternaria, and Penicillium usually results in mycotoxins in the stored crops or the final products (bread, beer, etc.). To reduce the damage and suppress the fungal growth, it is common to add antifungal substances during growth in the field or storage. Many of these antifungal substances are also harmful to human health and the reduction of their concentration would be of immense importance to food safety. Many eminent researchers are seeking a way to reduce the use of synthetic antifungal compounds and to implement more eco-friendly and healthier bioweapons against fungal proliferation and mycotoxin synthesis. This paper aims to address the recent advances in the effectiveness of biological antifungal compounds application against the aforementioned fungal genera and their species to enhance the protection of ecological and environmental systems involved in crop growing (water, soil, air) and to reduce fungicide contamination of food derived from these commodities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Habschied
- Faculty of Food Technology, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia; (V.K.); (J.B.)
| | - Vinko Krstanović
- Faculty of Food Technology, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia; (V.K.); (J.B.)
| | - Zvonimir Zdunić
- Agricultural Institute Osijek, Južno predgrađe 17, 31000 Osijek, Croatia;
| | - Jurislav Babić
- Faculty of Food Technology, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia; (V.K.); (J.B.)
| | - Krešimir Mastanjević
- Faculty of Food Technology, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia; (V.K.); (J.B.)
| | - Gabriella Kanižai Šarić
- Faculty of Agrobiotechnical Sciences Osijek, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Vladimira Preloga 1, 31000 Osijek, Croatia;
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kilic M, Altunoglu MK, Akdogan GE, Akpınar S, Taskın E, Erkal AH. Airborne fungal spore relationships with meteorological parameters and skin prick test results in Elazig, Turkey. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SCIENCE & ENGINEERING 2020; 18:1271-1280. [PMID: 33312641 PMCID: PMC7721787 DOI: 10.1007/s40201-020-00545-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since fungi spores have high concentrations in the atmosphere during most of the year, they have an important place in respiratory allergies. In this regard, the preparation of calendars showing fungi spore loads for residential areas has much importance in the treatment of the patients. The first aim of this study was to present the airborne fungal spore research results from Eastern Anatolia in Turkey. Then, the mold spores' relationships with the meteorological parameters and skin prick test results were also evaluated. The presence of fungal spores was investigated using a volumetric spore trap in 2018 year. METHODS In this study, fungal spores within the atmosphere of the Elazığ city of Turkey was measured through the volumetric method, using a Lanzoni VPPS 2000 device (VPPS 2000 Lanzoni, Bologna, Italy), in 2018 year. Annual data of temperature, humidity, precipitation and wind speed were used for comparing meteorological data with airborne fungal spore counts. In addition, 637 children who were admitted to a pediatric allergy clinic with allergic complaints were enrolled in the study. RESULTS A total of 145,099 spores/m3 and 20 fungal taxa belonging to the molds were recorded. Ustilago was the predominant genus (18.10%), followed by Oidium (18.01%), Drechslera (12.82%), and Fusarium (11.60%), which were the most common fungal spores found in Elazig's atmosphere. The total mold spores in the atmosphere reached the highest level, with 28,153 spores/m3, in July (mid-summer). Moreover, we found a positive correlation between the mold spores and the temperature, but negative correlations with the humidity and wind speed. In the skin prick tests in the children with allergic complaints, we detected sensitization to Alternaria alternata in 4.4%, Cladosporium herbarum in 3.0%, Penicillium notatum in 1.4%, and Aspergillus fumigatus in 1.1%. Additionally, there was no correlation between fungal spore concentration in the atmosphere with fungal spores sensitization in the skin prick test. CONCLUSIONS This study was the first aerofungal survey of the Eastern Anatolia region in Turkey; therefore, new information has been introduced in the field of aerobiology in Turkey.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Kilic
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Allergy and Immunology, University of Firat, Elazig, Turkey
- Cocuk Sagligi ve Hastalikları Anabilim Dalı, Fırat Universitesi Tip Fakultesi, 23119 Elazig, Turkey
| | | | - Gül Esma Akdogan
- Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Department of Biology, University of Kafkas, Kars, Turkey
| | - Salih Akpınar
- Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Department of Biology, University of Kafkas, Kars, Turkey
| | - Erdal Taskın
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of Firat, Elazig, Turkey
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Association of molds and metrological parameters to frequency of severe asthma exacerbation. Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol 2019; 15:29. [PMID: 31168304 PMCID: PMC6489181 DOI: 10.1186/s13223-019-0323-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sensitization to airborne molds may be a risk factor for severe asthma and direct cause of asthma exacerbation (AE). Methods A prospective, 1-year (April 2016-March 2017) study, done in Kuwait Allergy Centre, investigated the link between AEs with exposure to outdoor molds and the role of meteorological parameters in mold sensitized patients and compared with non-allergic asthma patients who had asthma deterioration. The total of 676 adult asthmatics with moderate-severe AEs were included and divided into atopic (85.65%) and non-atopic group. Atopy was defined by positive skin prick test (SPT) to at least one inhalant allergen. Data regarding atopy and asthma severity were collected from patient's records. Patients with symptoms and signs of acute respiratory infection and patient sensitized to indoor allergens only were excluded. Daily count of local pollens (Salsola kali, Bermuda grass) and molds (Aspergillus, Alternaria and Cladosporium) were obtained from the Aerobiology department. Daily metrological parameters (atmospheric pressure-AP, temperature-T and relative humidity-RH) were provided by Kuwait Environment Public Authority. Count of spores/m3 and weather variable are shown on weekly basis. The year circle was divided into 4 Seasons (1, 2, 3, 4) accordingly to typical desert climate. Results Sensitization to molds was relatively high but significantly less (25.0%) if compared to the pollens sensitization. The highest number of AEs was in season 4 for both molds and pollens sensitized patients. Seasonal patterns for both allergens were significant and positively correlated with RH and AP. In season 1 only, mold sensitized patients showed higher rate of AEs. Non-atopic patients have been less sensitive to increased RH than atopic. Negative correlation with T was similar in both atopic and non-atopic patients. Conclusion Despite of high rate of sensitization to molds, their significant role in triggering AE was not found in desert environment. Typical desert climate and high allergencity of local weeds outweigh the influence of the molds.
Collapse
|
7
|
Caillaud D, Cheriaux M, Charpin D, Chaabane N, Thibaudon M. [Outdoor moulds and respiratory health]. Rev Mal Respir 2018; 35:188-196. [PMID: 29477567 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmr.2018.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2017] [Accepted: 05/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Mould spores constitute the largest portion of biologic particulate matter suspended in the outdoor atmosphere. There is no universal method for collecting airborne mould spores. The most used sampler, Hirst's apparatus, operates continuously and gives results in individual spores per cubic metre of air. Spore concentrations depend on available substrates, human activities such as agriculture, season, diurnal meteorological variations and climate changes. Under natural conditions, concentrations of over 100,000 spores per cubic metre are not exceptional. Cladosporium is the most commonly identified outdoor mould. The association between respiratory health and outdoor mould spore exposure has been assessed in clinical studies, and also by cross-sectional, and less often longitudinal, epidemiological studies. The relationship between asthma exacerbations and specific mould spores has been demonstrated in longitudinal studies. Cross sectional studies have related measurements of mould spore concentrations to severity of bronchial symptoms, drug consumption and peak-flow measurements in groups of asthmatic subjects. Ecological time-series studies use daily indicators of asthma exacerbations (emergency room visits, hospitalizations) within the general population. The moulds mainly incriminated are Cladosporium and Alternaria. They are associated with seasonal, but also perennial, asthma and rhinitis. Further studies are needed to better assess the impact of outdoor moulds on health, particularly basidiomycetes. Studies with molecular biology tools are probably a way forward.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Caillaud
- Service de pneumologie-allergologie, université d'Auvergne, CHU de G-Montpied, 63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France.
| | - M Cheriaux
- Service de pneumologie-allergologie, université d'Auvergne, CHU de G-Montpied, 63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - D Charpin
- Inserm U 1067, clinique des bronches, allergie et sommeil, hôpital Nord 2, Aix-Marseille université, 13000 Aix-Marseille, France
| | - N Chaabane
- Service de pneumologie-allergologie, université d'Auvergne, CHU de G-Montpied, 63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - M Thibaudon
- Réseau national de surveillance aérobiologique (RNSA), 69690 Brussieu, France
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Pyrri I, Kapsanaki-Gotsi E. Functional relations of airborne fungi to meteorological and pollution factors in a Mediterranean urban environment. FUNGAL ECOL 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.funeco.2017.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
9
|
|
10
|
Lehmann S, Sprünken A, Wagner N, Tenbrock K, Ott H. Clinical relevance of IgE-mediated sensitization against the mould Alternaria alternata in children with asthma. Ther Adv Respir Dis 2016; 11:30-39. [PMID: 28043213 PMCID: PMC5941980 DOI: 10.1177/1753465816680786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Asthma in childhood has a prevalence of 5–10% in Germany and severe asthma
accounts for about 5% in this patient group. Positive predictive values for
severe asthma are atopy, a positive family history and sensitizations
against inhalative allergens. Alternaria is an important
inhalative allergen and sensitization is suspected to correlate with severe
and lethal asthma. We investigated the prevalence and impact of
Alternaria sensitization in paediatric asthma. Methods: We reviewed paediatric patients with a diagnosis of low-grade, moderate and
severe asthma. Data collection included concomitant atopic diseases,
sensitization profiles, family history and prior hospitalization for asthma
exacerbation. Results: A total of 207 paediatric patients (aged 1–17 years) were included in the
study. Overall, 25% had low-grade asthma, 31% moderate and 44% severe asthma
and 26% were formerly hospitalized. Alternaria
sensitization was the most common in moulds, although without significant
correlation with hospitalization and severe asthma.
Alternaria sensitization increased with age and was
significantly associated with co-sensitization against other moulds, grass
pollen and cat epithelia. Allergic rhinitis was significantly correlated
with hospitalization, independent of Alternaria
sensitization. Conclusions: Alternaria sensitization was common and increased with age.
No significant correlation was found between asthma degree, hospitalization
rates and sensitization profiles. Alternaria sensitization
demonstrated no isolated risk factor for severe asthma and
hospitalization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia Lehmann
- Department of Pediatric Pulmonology and Allergology, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Hagen Ott
- Children's Hospital Auf der Bult, Hannover, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Association between Outdoor Fungal Concentrations during Winter and Pulmonary Function in Children with and without Asthma. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 13:ijerph13050452. [PMID: 27136569 PMCID: PMC4881077 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph13050452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2016] [Revised: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Outdoor fungi are important components of airborne particulate matter (PM). However, the associations between pulmonary function and outdoor fungi are less well known compared to other airborne PM constituents. The objective of this study was to investigate the association between outdoor fungi and pulmonary function in children. Morning peak expiratory flow (PEF) rates were measured daily in 339 schoolchildren (including 36 with asthma), aged 10 to 12, 2 to 27 February 2015. Airborne PM was collected on filters, using a high volume air sampler, each day during the study period. The daily concentration of outdoor fungi-associated PM was calculated using a culture-based method. A linear mixed model was used to estimate the association between PEF values and daily concentrations of outdoor fungi, and the daily levels of suspended PM (SPM) and PM ≤ 2.5 μm (PM2.5). An increase in the interquartile range (46.2 CFU/m3) for outdoor fungal concentration led to PEF changes of −1.18 L/min (95% confidence interval, −2.27 to −0.08) in all children, 1.22 L/min (−2.96 to 5.41) in children without asthma, and −1.44 L/min (−2.57 to −0.32) in children with asthma. Outdoor fungi showed a significant negative correlation with PM2.5 levels (r = −0.4, p = 0.04), but not with SPM (r = ‒0.3, p = 0.10) levels. Outdoor fungi may be associated with pulmonary dysfunction in children. Furthermore, children with asthma may show greater pulmonary dysfunction than those without asthma.
Collapse
|
12
|
Sabreen AK, Lena FH, Imad HH. Antibacterial activity of secondary metabolites isolated from Alternaria alternata. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.5897/ajb2015.14906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
|
13
|
Twaroch TE, Curin M, Valenta R, Swoboda I. Mold allergens in respiratory allergy: from structure to therapy. ALLERGY, ASTHMA & IMMUNOLOGY RESEARCH 2015; 7:205-20. [PMID: 25840710 PMCID: PMC4397360 DOI: 10.4168/aair.2015.7.3.205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2014] [Accepted: 09/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Allergic reactions to fungi were described 300 years ago, but the importance of allergy to fungi has been underestimated for a long time. Allergens from fungi mainly cause respiratory and skin symptoms in sensitized patients. In this review, we will focus on fungi and fungal allergens involved in respiratory forms of allergy, such as allergic rhinitis and asthma. Fungi can act as indoor and outdoor respiratory allergen sources, and depending on climate conditions, the rates of sensitization in individuals attending allergy clinics range from 5% to 20%. Due to the poor quality of natural fungal allergen extracts, diagnosis of fungal allergy is hampered, and allergen-specific immunotherapy is rarely given. Several factors are responsible for the poor quality of natural fungal extracts, among which the influence of culture conditions on allergen contents. However, molecular cloning techniques have allowed us to isolate DNAs coding for fungal allergens and to produce a continuously growing panel of recombinant allergens for the diagnosis of fungal allergy. Moreover, technologies are now available for the preparation of recombinant and synthetic fungal allergen derivatives which can be used to develop safe vaccines for the treatment of fungal allergy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teresa E Twaroch
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Mirela Curin
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Rudolf Valenta
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Ines Swoboda
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.; The Molecular Biotechnology Section, University of Applied Sciences, Campus Vienna Biocenter, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Flores MEB, Medina PG, Camacho SPD, de Jesús Uribe Beltrán M, De la Cruz Otero MDC, Ramírez IO, Hernández MET. Fungal spore concentrations in indoor and outdoor air in university libraries, and their variations in response to changes in meteorological variables. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2014; 24:320-340. [PMID: 24070332 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2013.835029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The fungal spore concentration (FSC) in the air poses a risk for human health. This work studied the FSC in university libraries and how it is affected by environmental factors. A total of 347 samples were obtained using a Microbio MB2(®) Aerosol Sampler. The wind speed (WS), cross wind (CW), temperature (T), relative humidity (HR), barometric pressure (BP) and dew point (DP) were recorded using a Kestrel(®) 4500 weather station. The median indoor/outdoor FSC was 360/1230 CFU m(-3). FSC correlated inversely with BP, HR and DP; and positively with WS and CW; whereas T showed negative or positive correlation with FSC, depending on the region or sampling time. Eleven fungal genera were found and the dominant isolates were identified as Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus tamarii and Aspergillus oryzae. All fungi identified are known to be allergenic. It was concluded that environmental variables can influence the air FSC in different ways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María Elena Báez Flores
- a Facultad de Ciencias Químico Biológicas , Universidad Autónoma de Sinaloa , Culiacán , México
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Aggarwal AN, Chakrabarti A. Does climate mould the influence of mold on asthma? Lung India 2013; 30:273-6. [PMID: 24339481 PMCID: PMC3841680 DOI: 10.4103/0970-2113.120594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ashutosh Nath Aggarwal
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
AMATULLI MT, FANELLI F, MORETTI A, MULE G, LOGRIECO AF. Alternaria species and mycotoxins associated to black point of cereals. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.2520/myco.63.39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
17
|
Respiratory allergy to fungi in Barcelona, Spain: clinical aspects, diagnosis and specific treatment in a general allergy unit. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2012; 40:295-300. [PMID: 22136809 DOI: 10.1016/j.aller.2011.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2011] [Revised: 09/19/2011] [Accepted: 09/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The importance of hypersensitivity to fungal allergens is a relatively unknown and somewhat controversial subject. METHODS An open prospective study was carried out in just one centre to determine the clinical and epidemiological characteristics as well as the diagnostic usefulness of skin prick and conjunctiva provocation tests, associated with total and specific IgE determination in two groups of patients, one of which was monosensitised to fungi and the other of which had multiple sensitisations, including fungi. RESULTS Rhinitis, exclusive or associated with asthma, was the main consultation cause (88% in monosensitised patients). Severe asthma was rarely found. In the polysensitised group, 64% were simultaneously allergic to moulds and mites. Alternaria alternata was the most common sensitising fungus, although a considerable number of cases were associated with other species such as Cladosporium, Penicillium and/or Aspergillus. The skin prick test gave the highest sensitivity and specificity. In 67% of the cases, the specific IgE was found between classes 3 and 4. The conjunctival provocation test was an innocuous and highly useful method for verifying the diagnosis and determining the degree of clinical sensitisation. A large number of patients exclusively allergic to fungi received specific immunotherapy, and it was generally well tolerated. CONCLUSIONS This protocolised study shows the importance of Alternaria and other fungi sensitisations in rhinitis alone or associated with asthma. Combined diagnosis of prick test, specific IgE and conjunctiva provocation test is very useful for deciding specific immunotherapy.
Collapse
|
18
|
Papadopoulou A, Hatziagorou E, Matziou V, Grigoropoulou D, Panagiotakos D, Tsanakas J, Gratziou C, Priftis K. Comparison in asthma and allergy prevalence in the two major cities in Greece: the ISAAC phase II survey. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2011; 39:347-55. [PMID: 21342745 DOI: 10.1016/j.aller.2010.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2010] [Revised: 10/07/2010] [Accepted: 10/26/2010] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Variability in the prevalence of allergic diseases has been detected not only between different countries, but also between cities with similar national and different socio-economic or climatic characteristics. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of childhood asthma and allergies and which factors are associated with them, in the two largest Greek cities, Athens and Thessaloniki. METHODS Two thousand and twenty-three Greek 9-10-year-old schoolchildren from Athens (Central Greece) and Thessaloniki (North Greece, more humid), were included in ISAAC-II study. All participants followed the ISAAC-II protocol by questionnaire, skin prick testing and flexural dermatitis examination. RESULTS Compared with Athens, the prevalence of current wheezing (8.4% vs. 5.7%, p=0.002), lifetime asthma (11.5% vs. 7.7%, p=0.004), atopic current asthma (3.2% vs. 1.6%, p=0.02), allergic rhinitis (8.2% vs. 5.2%, p=0.007), and hay fever (21.7% vs. 12.5%, p<0.001) were higher in Thessaloniki. The overall sensitisation rate was also higher in Thessaloniki than in Athens (25.2% vs. 16%, p<0.001) with more prevalent sensitising due to the perennial allergens (D. pteronyssinus, D. farinae, Alternaria tenuis) and cat dander. Perennial allergens sensitisation was a risk factor for current asthma in both cities. CONCLUSION A higher prevalence of asthma symptoms, allergic rhinitis, and sensitisation rate was detected in Greek schoolchildren living in Thessaloniki compared to those in Athens. Allergy to mites and mould was more prevalent in Thessaloniki. The more humid weather of Thessaloniki may be implicated.
Collapse
|
19
|
Yang HJ, Jeon YH, Min TK, Son BS, Park KJ, Moon JY, Pyun BY. The impact of climate change on aeroalleregen and pediatric allergic diseases. JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION 2011. [DOI: 10.5124/jkma.2011.54.9.971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon Jong Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Allergy and Respiratory Center, Soonchunhyang University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - You Hoon Jeon
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Allergy and Respiratory Center, Soonchunhyang University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Taek Ki Min
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Allergy and Respiratory Center, Soonchunhyang University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Bu Soon Son
- Department of Environmental Health Science, Soonchunhyang University, Asan, Korea
| | - Kwan Jun Park
- Research Institute for Healthy Cities and Health Impact Assessment, Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Korea
| | - Jong Youn Moon
- Research Institute for Healthy Cities and Health Impact Assessment, Soonchunhyang University, Cheonan, Korea
| | - Bok Yang Pyun
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Allergy and Respiratory Center, Soonchunhyang University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|