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Onwusereaka CO, Jalaludin J, Oluchi SE, Poh Choo VC. New generation sequencing: molecular approaches for the detection and monitoring of bioaerosols in an indoor environment: a systematic review. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2024; 0:reveh-2023-0004. [PMID: 38214730 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2023-0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The exposure of occupants to indoor air pollutants has increased in recent decades. The aim of this review is to discuss an overview of new approaches that are used to study fungal aerosols. Thus, this motivation was to compensate the gaps caused by the use of only traditional approaches in the study of fungal exposure. CONTENT The search involved various databases such as; Science Direct, PubMed, SAGE, Springer Link, EBCOHOST, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Cochrane library, Web of Science and Wiley Online Library. It was limited to full text research articles that reported the use of non-viable method in assessing bioaerosol, written in English Language, full text publications and published from year 2015-2022. SUMMARY AND OUTLOOK A total of 15 articles met the inclusion criteria and was included in this review. The use of next-generation sequencing, which is more commonly referred to as high-throughput sequencing (HTS) or molecular methods in microbial studies is based on the detection of genetic material of organisms present in a given sample. Applying these methods to different environments permitted the identification of the microorganisms present, and a better comprehension of the environmental impacts and ecological roles of microbial communities. Based on the reviewed articles, there is evidence that dust samples harbour a high diversity of human-associated bacteria and fungi. Molecular methods such as next generation sequencing are reliable tools for identifying and tracking the bacterial and fungal diversity in dust samples using 18S metagenomics approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia Oluchi Onwusereaka
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Juliana Jalaludin
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Sampson Emilia Oluchi
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
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Tamburini M, Pernetti R, Anelli M, Oddone E, Morandi A, Osuchowski A, Villani S, Montomoli C, Monti MC. Analysing the Impact on Health and Environment from Biogas Production Process and Biomass Combustion: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5305. [PMID: 37047920 PMCID: PMC10094619 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20075305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The increasing demand for renewable energy production entails the development of novel green technologies, among them the use of biomass for energy generation. Industrial processes raise new issues regarding emerging risks for the health of people working in biogas plants and of nearby communities. The potential epidemiological and environmental impacts on human health related to biogas plants were assessed by means of a review of the available literature. Nineteen papers published between 2000 and 2022 were identified through electronic database search using search strings. The selected works are epidemiological studies and environmental monitoring studies, which aimed at investigating what are the health risk factors for biogas plant workers and for people living in the surrounding communities. The results of the epidemiological studies revealed a potential exposure to endotoxins and fungi that are associated with respiratory symptoms. Furthermore, the results from the environmental monitoring studies showed significant concentrations of particulate matter, microbial agents, endotoxins, and VOCs in occupational settings. In conclusion, the results of this literature review suggest that further analyses through an integrated approach combining environmental and health data are necessary for a comprehensive understanding of the potential risks associated with the uptake of biogas technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Tamburini
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Roberta Pernetti
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Manuela Anelli
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Enrico Oddone
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Hospital Occupational Medicine Unit (UOOML), ICS Maugeri IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Anna Morandi
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Adam Osuchowski
- Unit of Occupational Medicine, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Simona Villani
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Cristina Montomoli
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Monti
- Unit of Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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Afanou AK, Straumfors A, Eduard W. Fungal aerosol composition in moldy basements. INDOOR AIR 2019; 29:780-790. [PMID: 31106451 PMCID: PMC6851693 DOI: 10.1111/ina.12567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Experimental aerosolization studies revealed that fungal fragments including small fragments in the submicrometer size are released from fungal cultures and have been suggested to represent an important fraction of overall fungal aerosols in indoor environments. However, their prevalence indoors and outdoors remains poorly characterized. Moldy basements were investigated for airborne fungal particles including spores, submicron fragments, and larger fragments. Particles were collected onto poly-L-lysine-coated polycarbonate filters and qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed using immunogold labeling combined with field emission scanning electron microscopy. We found that the total fungal aerosol levels including spores, submicrometer, and larger fragments in the moldy basements (median: 80 × 103 m-3 ) were not different from that estimated in control basements (63 × 103 m-3 ) and outdoor (90 × 103 m-3 ). However, mixed effect modeling of the fungal aerosol composition revealed that the fraction of fragments increased significantly in moldy basements, versus the spore fraction that increased significantly in outdoor air. These findings provide new insight on the compositional variation of mixed fungal aerosols in indoor as compared to outdoor air. Our results also suggest that further studies, aiming to investigate the role of fungal aerosols in the fungal exposure-disease relationships, should consider the mixed composition of various types of fungal particles.
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Afanou KA, Eduard W, Laier Johnsen HB, Straumfors A. Fungal Fragments and Fungal Aerosol Composition in Sawmills. Ann Work Expo Health 2019; 62:559-570. [PMID: 29846519 PMCID: PMC5972573 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxy022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 03/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Assessment of exposure to fungi has commonly been limited to fungal spore measurements that have shown associations between fungi and development or exacerbation of different airway diseases. Because large numbers of submicronic fragments can be aerosolized from fungal cultures under laboratory conditions, it has been suggested that fungal exposure is more complex and higher than that commonly revealed by spore measurements. However, the assessment of fungal fragments in complex environmental matrix remain limited due to methodological challenges. With a recently developed immunolabeling method for field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), we could assess the complex composition of fungal aerosols present in personal thoracic samples collected from two Norwegian sawmills. We found that large fungal fragments (length >1 µm) dominated the fungal aerosols indicating that the traditional monitoring approach of spores severely underestimate fungal exposure. The composition of fungal aerosols comprised in average 9% submicronic fragments, 62% large fragments, and 29% spores. The average concentrations of large and submicronic fragments (0.2–1 µm) were 3 × 105 and 0.6 × 105 particles m−3, respectively, and correlated weakly with spores (1.4 × 105 particles m−3). The levels of fragments were 2.6 times higher than the average spore concentration that was close to the proposed hazardous level of 105 spores per m3. The season influenced significantly the fungal aerosol concentrations but not the composition. Furthermore, the ratio of spores in the heterogeneous fungal aerosol composition was significantly higher in saw departments as compared to sorting of green timber departments where the fungal fragments were most prevalent. Being the dominating particles of fungal aerosols in sawmills, fungal fragments should be included in exposure-response studies to elucidate their importance for health impairments. Likewise, the use of fungal aerosol composition in such studies should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Komlavi Anani Afanou
- Department of Chemical and Biological Work Environment, STAMI National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Wijnand Eduard
- Department of Chemical and Biological Work Environment, STAMI National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Helle Birgit Laier Johnsen
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Epidemiology, STAMI National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anne Straumfors
- Department of Chemical and Biological Work Environment, STAMI National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway
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Dehghani M, Sorooshian A, Ghorbani M, Fazlzadeh M, Miri M, Badiee P, Parvizi A, Ansari M, Baghani AN, Delikhoon M. Seasonal Variation in Culturable Bioaerosols in a Wastewater Treatment Plant. AEROSOL AND AIR QUALITY RESEARCH 2018; 18:2826-2839. [PMID: 33907559 PMCID: PMC8075322 DOI: 10.4209/aaqr.2017.11.0466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Bioaerosols produced from Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs) can pose health risks to plant workers and nearby inhabitants. There is a gap in air quality data for WWTPs in developing countries. The present study aimed to measure airborne bacterial and fungal concentrations in a WWTP in southwestern Iran between September 2015 and May 2016. Active sampling was conducted around operational units, and a total of 600 bacterial and fungal samples were collected. Spatial and seasonal comparisons were made. The highest average concentrations of culturable bacterial aerosol at seasonally dependent locations were, in decreasing order, 2581 ± 401 and 1952 ± 390 CFU m-3 for the selector and aeration tanks, respectively, in autumn; 1363 ± 299 CFU m-3 for the aeration tank in winter; and 1738 ± 350 CFU m-3 for the screw pump in spring. Furthermore, the predominant genera of airborne fungi isolated from the air of the WWTP in all three seasons were Cephalotrichum spp., Alternaria spp., Penicillium spp., Monilia spp., and Aspergillus spp. The results of this work emphasize the necessity of controlling WWTP workers' exposure to bioaerosols when bacteria and fungi become aerosolized during aeration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mansooreh Dehghani
- Research Center for Health Sciences, Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Armin Sorooshian
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
- Department of Hydrology and Atmospheric Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Mohammad Ghorbani
- Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran
| | - Mehdi Fazlzadeh
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of public health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Mohammad Miri
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of public health, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
| | - Parisa Badiee
- Alborzi Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ali Parvizi
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Marziye Ansari
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Abbas Norouzian Baghani
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of public health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Corresponding author. Tel.: +989102141053; Fax: +98 71 37251001,
| | - Mahdieh Delikhoon
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Corresponding author.
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Monitoring of bacterial pathogens at workplaces in power plant using biochemical and molecular methods. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2017; 90:285-295. [PMID: 28124138 PMCID: PMC5360828 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-017-1197-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2016] [Accepted: 01/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this study was to characterize the ways of spreading of the most common bacterial species isolated from workers as well as from the air and raw materials at the workplaces in power plant utilizing biomass sources. To monitor microbial transmission and identify the source of contamination in the working environment, a combination of molecular and biochemical methods was applied. Methods The study was carried out at workplaces in power plant utilizes biomass as a main fuel source. At each of the studied workplaces, bioaerosol particles were collected on sterile Teflon filters using personal conical inhalable samplers (CIS), and biomass samples (straw pellets and briquettes, corn briquettes, sunflower pellets and wood chips) were directly taken from their storage places. Simultaneously with that, the swab samples from the hands of ten workers and their used respiratory masks (of FFP2 class) were also collected after the work shift to evaluate individual workers’ microbial contamination. In all collected samples, total bacterial concentrations were assessed and the most common microbial isolates were identified to the species level using both biochemical (API tests) and molecular polymerase chain reaction (PCR), followed by random amplification of polymorphic DNA (RAPD) typing methods. Results The mean concentrations of culturable bacteria in the air and in biomass samples at the studied workplaces were high, i.e. 1.2 × 106cfu/m3 and 3.8 × 104cfu/g, respectively. The number of bacteria in the swab and mask samples also reached a high level of 1.4 × 104 cfu/ml and 1.9 × 103 cfu/cm2, respectively. Among the most frequently isolated microorganisms from all types of samples were Gram-positive bacteria of the genus Bacillus and Staphylococcus xylosus. 37 bacterial strains belonging to the genus Bacillus (B. licheniformis 8, B. pumilus 15 and B. subtilis 4) and Staphylococcus (10) were genotyped by the RAPD-PCR method. Based on RAPD-PCR analyses, the genomic similarity among 19 Bacillus strains isolated from biomass, air, protective mask and hand samples as well as 6 S. xylosus strains isolated from air, mask and hand samples exceeded 80%. Conclusion This study demonstrated that biomass is the primary source of bacteria at power plant workplaces. These results also revealed that biomass-associated bacteria can be easily transferred to workers’ hands and mask during their routine activities. To improve health protection at the workplaces, adequate training courses on hand hygiene and how to use and remove respiratory masks correctly for workers should be introduced as a key element of the prevention strategy. From the occupational point of view, the PCR-based methods seem to be an efficient tool for a fast and precise typing of bacterial strains isolated from different sources in the occupational environment. Such methods may help to implement appropriate prophylactic procedures and minimize transmission of infectious agents at workplaces.
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Generation and Characterization of Indoor Fungal Aerosols for Inhalation Studies. Appl Environ Microbiol 2016; 82:2479-93. [PMID: 26921421 PMCID: PMC4959492 DOI: 10.1128/aem.04063-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In the indoor environment, people are exposed to several fungal species. Evident dampness is associated with increased respiratory symptoms. To examine the immune responses associated with fungal exposure, mice are often exposed to a single species grown on an agar medium. The aim of this study was to develop an inhalation exposure system to be able to examine responses in mice exposed to mixed fungal species aerosolized from fungus-infested building materials. Indoor airborne fungi were sampled and cultivated on gypsum boards. Aerosols were characterized and compared with aerosols in homes. Aerosols containing 107 CFU of fungi/m3 air were generated repeatedly from fungus-infested gypsum boards in a mouse exposure chamber. Aerosols contained Aspergillus nidulans, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus ustus, Aspergillus versicolor, Chaetomium globosum, Cladosporiumherbarum, Penicillium brevicompactum, Penicillium camemberti, Penicillium chrysogenum, Penicillium commune, Penicillium glabrum, Penicillium olsonii, Penicillium rugulosum, Stachybotrys chartarum, and Wallemia sebi. They were all among the most abundant airborne species identified in 28 homes. Nine species from gypsum boards and 11 species in the homes are associated with water damage. Most fungi were present as single spores, but chains and clusters of different species and fragments were also present. The variation in exposure level during the 60 min of aerosol generation was similar to the variation measured in homes. Through aerosolization of fungi from the indoor environment, cultured on gypsum boards, it was possible to generate realistic aerosols in terms of species composition, concentration, and particle sizes. The inhalation-exposure system can be used to study responses to indoor fungi associated with water damage and the importance of fungal species composition.
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Kallawicha K, Tsai YJ, Chuang YC, Lung SCC, Wu CD, Chen TH, Chen PC, Chompuchan C, Chao HJ. The spatiotemporal distributions and determinants of ambient fungal spores in the Greater Taipei area. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2015; 204:173-180. [PMID: 25969377 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2015.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2015] [Revised: 04/17/2015] [Accepted: 04/19/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Airborne fungal spores, a type of bioaerosols, are significant air pollutants. We conducted a study to determine the spatiotemporal distributions of ambient fungi in the Greater Taipei area and develop land use regression (LUR) models for total and major fungal taxa. Four seasonal sampling campaigns were conducted over a year at 44 representative sites. Multiple regressions were performed to construct the LUR models. Ascospores were the most prevalent category, followed by Aspergillus/Penicillium, basidiospores, and Cladosporium. The highest fungal concentrations were found in spring. According to the LUR models, higher concentrations of Aspergillus/Penicillium and basidiospores were respectively present in residential/commercial areas and in areas with shorter road lengths. Various meteorological factors, particulates with aerodynamic diameters of ≤10 μm, and elevation also had significant relationships with fungal concentrations. The LUR models developed in this study can be used to assess spatiotemporal fungal distribution in the Greater Taipei area.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ying-Jie Tsai
- School of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Chih Chuang
- School of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | - Chih-Da Wu
- Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, National Chiayi University, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Tsun-Hsuan Chen
- Environmental and Occupational Health Science Program, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Pang-Cheng Chen
- School of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chuphan Chompuchan
- Department of Irrigation Engineering, Faculty of Engineering at Kamphaeng Saen, Kasetsart University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
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Rohr AC, Campleman SL, Long CM, Peterson MK, Weatherstone S, Quick W, Lewis A. Potential Occupational Exposures and Health Risks Associated with Biomass-Based Power Generation. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2015; 12:8542-605. [PMID: 26206568 PMCID: PMC4515735 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph120708542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2015] [Revised: 07/03/2015] [Accepted: 07/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Biomass is increasingly being used for power generation; however, assessment of potential occupational health and safety (OH&S) concerns related to usage of biomass fuels in combustion-based generation remains limited. We reviewed the available literature on known and potential OH&S issues associated with biomass-based fuel usage for electricity generation at the utility scale. We considered three potential exposure scenarios--pre-combustion exposure to material associated with the fuel, exposure to combustion products, and post-combustion exposure to ash and residues. Testing of dust, fungal and bacterial levels at two power stations was also undertaken. Results indicated that dust concentrations within biomass plants can be extremely variable, with peak levels in some areas exceeding occupational exposure limits for wood dust and general inhalable dust. Fungal spore types, identified as common environmental species, were higher than in outdoor air. Our review suggests that pre-combustion risks, including bioaerosols and biogenic organics, should be considered further. Combustion and post-combustion risks appear similar to current fossil-based combustion. In light of limited available information, additional studies at power plants utilizing a variety of technologies and biomass fuels are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette C Rohr
- Electric Power Research Institute, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA.
| | | | | | | | - Susan Weatherstone
- ON Technologies (Ratcliffe) Ltd., Ratcliffe on Soar, Nottinghamshire, NG11 0EE, UK.
| | - Will Quick
- ON Technologies (Ratcliffe) Ltd., Ratcliffe on Soar, Nottinghamshire, NG11 0EE, UK.
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Indirect Immunodetection of Fungal Fragments by Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy. Appl Environ Microbiol 2015; 81:5794-803. [PMID: 26092450 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00929-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Submicronic fungal fragments have been observed in in vitro aerosolization experiments. The occurrence of these particles has therefore been suggested to contribute to respiratory health problems observed in mold-contaminated indoor environments. However, the role of submicronic fragments in exacerbating adverse health effects has remained unclear due to limitations associated with detection methods. In the present study, we report the development of an indirect immunodetection assay that utilizes chicken polyclonal antibodies developed against spores from Aspergillus versicolor and high-resolution field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Immunolabeling was performed with A. versicolor fragments immobilized and fixed onto poly-l-lysine-coated polycarbonate filters. Ninety percent of submicronic fragments and 1- to 2-μm fragments, compared to 100% of >2-μm fragments generated from pure freeze-dried mycelial fragments of A. versicolor, were positively labeled. In proof-of-concept experiments, air samples collected from moldy indoor environments were evaluated using the immunolabeling technique. Our results indicated that 13% of the total collected particles were derived from fungi. This fraction comprises 79% of the fragments that were detected by immunolabeling and 21% of the spore particles that were morphologically identified. The methods reported in this study enable the enumeration of fungal particles, including submicronic fragments, in a complex heterogeneous environmental sample.
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Afanou KA, Straumfors A, Skogstad A, Skaar I, Hjeljord L, Skare Ø, Green BJ, Tronsmo A, Eduard W. Profile and Morphology of Fungal Aerosols Characterized by Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM). AEROSOL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR AEROSOL RESEARCH 2015; 49:423-435. [PMID: 26855468 PMCID: PMC4741100 DOI: 10.1080/02786826.2015.1040486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Fungal aerosols consist of spores and fragments with diverse array of morphologies; however, the size, shape, and origin of the constituents require further characterization. In this study, we characterize the profile of aerosols generated from Aspergillus fumigatus, A. versicolor, and Penicillium chrysogenum grown for 8 weeks on gypsum boards. Fungal particles were aerosolized at 12 and 20 L min-1 using the Fungal Spore Source Strength Tester (FSSST) and the Stami particle generator (SPG). Collected particles were analyzed with field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). We observed spore particle fraction consisting of single spores and spore aggregates in four size categories, and a fragment fraction that contained submicronic fragments and three size categories of larger fragments. Single spores dominated the aerosols from A. fumigatus (median: 53%), while the submicronic fragment fraction was the highest in the aerosols collected from A. versicolor (median: 34%) and P. chrysogenum (median: 31%). Morphological characteristics showed near spherical particles that were only single spores, oblong particles that comprise some spore aggregates and fragments (<3.5 μm), and fiber-like particles that regroup chained spore aggregates and fragments (>3.5 μm). Further, the near spherical particles dominated the aerosols from A. fumigatus (median: 53%), while oblong particles were dominant in the aerosols from A. versicolor (68%) and P. chrysogenum (55%). Fiber-like particles represented 21% and 24% of the aerosols from A. versicolor and P. chrysogenum, respectively. This study shows that fungal particles of various size, shape, and origin are aerosolized, and supports the need to include a broader range of particle types in fungal exposure assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Komlavi Anani Afanou
- National Institute of Occupational Health, Department of Chemical and Biological Work Environment, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anne Straumfors
- National Institute of Occupational Health, Department of Chemical and Biological Work Environment, Oslo, Norway
| | - Asbjørn Skogstad
- National Institute of Occupational Health, Department of Chemical and Biological Work Environment, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ida Skaar
- Norwegian Veterinary Institute, Section of Mycology, Oslo, Norway
| | - Linda Hjeljord
- Norwegian University of Life Science, Institute of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Food Science, Ås, Norway
| | - Øivind Skare
- National Institute of Occupational Health, Department of Chemical and Biological Work Environment, Oslo, Norway
| | - Brett James Green
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effect Laboratory Division, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - Arne Tronsmo
- Norwegian University of Life Science, Institute of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Food Science, Ås, Norway
| | - Wijnand Eduard
- National Institute of Occupational Health, Department of Chemical and Biological Work Environment, Oslo, Norway
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Submicronic fungal bioaerosols: high-resolution microscopic characterization and quantification. Appl Environ Microbiol 2014; 80:7122-30. [PMID: 25217010 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01740-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Submicronic particles released from fungal cultures have been suggested to be additional sources of personal exposure in mold-contaminated buildings. In vitro generation of these particles has been studied with particle counters, eventually supplemented by autofluorescence, that recognize fragments by size and discriminate biotic from abiotic particles. However, the fungal origin of submicronic particles remains unclear. In this study, submicronic fungal particles derived from Aspergillus fumigatus, A. versicolor, and Penicillium chrysogenum cultures grown on agar and gypsum board were aerosolized and enumerated using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). A novel bioaerosol generator and a fungal spores source strength tester were compared at 12 and 20 liters min(-1) airflow. The overall median numbers of aerosolized submicronic particles were 2 × 10(5) cm(-2), 2.6 × 10(3) cm(-2), and 0.9 × 10(3) cm(-2) for A. fumigatus, A. versicolor, and P. chrysogenum, respectively. A. fumigatus released significantly (P < 0.001) more particles than A. versicolor and P. chrysogenum. The ratios of submicronic fragments to larger particles, regardless of media type, were 1:3, 5:1, and 1:2 for A. fumigatus, A. versicolor, and P. chrysogenum, respectively. Spore fragments identified by the presence of rodlets amounted to 13%, 2%, and 0% of the submicronic particles released from A. fumigatus, A. versicolor, and P. chrysogenum, respectively. Submicronic particles with and without rodlets were also aerosolized from cultures grown on cellophane-covered media, indirectly confirming their fungal origin. Both hyphae and conidia could fragment into submicronic particles and aerosolize in vitro. These findings further highlight the potential contribution of fungal fragments to personal fungal exposure.
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Frankel M, Hansen EW, Madsen AM. Effect of relative humidity on the aerosolization and total inflammatory potential of fungal particles from dust-inoculated gypsum boards. INDOOR AIR 2014; 24:16-28. [PMID: 23750665 DOI: 10.1111/ina.12055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2012] [Accepted: 06/04/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of relative humidity (RH) on the aerosolization and total inflammatory potential (TIP) of microbial particles released from gypsum boards inoculated with dust samples from homes. After microbial colonization, the gypsum boards were incubated at either high or low RH. The aerosolized particles (0.54-19.8 μm), culturable fungi, β-glucan and the TIP of the aerosolized particles were quantified. Despite the colonization of several fungal groups, Penicillium dominated the aerosolized fraction. Higher emission rates of particles and culturable fungi were found from low RH compared with high RH in both the inhalable and particulate matter <1 μm (PM1 ) fractions, and the TIP was accordingly higher. However, for the aerosolized fractions, the TIP or concentration β-glucan relative to the number of fungi or particles present was higher from high RH compared with low RH. Despite the low number of culturable fungi in PM1 , this fraction showed a high TIP, and the concentration of β-glucan correlated strongly with the TIP of this fraction. The individual particles of the aerosolized PM1 fraction were more inflammatory than the larger particles of the inhalable fraction, and β-glucan may be an important contributor to the inflammatory potential of the aerosolized particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Frankel
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Madsen AM, Tendal K, Frederiksen MW. Attempts to reduce exposure to fungi, β-glucan, bacteria, endotoxin and dust in vegetable greenhouses and a packaging unit. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2014; 468-469:1112-21. [PMID: 24112965 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2013.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2013] [Revised: 09/04/2013] [Accepted: 09/04/2013] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Indoor handling of large amounts of plant materials occurs in different occupational settings including greenhouses and causes exposure to bioaerosols. The bioaerosol components fungi, β-glucan, bacteria and endotoxin are involved in different airway symptoms and health effects can be dose-dependent. Therefore, there is a persistent need to reduce exposure. The aims of this study were to identify tasks causing exposure and to evaluate preventive measures aimed at reducing exposure of greenhouse workers to bioaerosols, and to study factors affecting the exposure. We have focused on different exposure scenarios; one with high short-term exposure found during clearing of old cucumber plants; the other with long-term, mid-level exposure found during tomato picking, leaf nipping, stringing up tomato plants, and packaging of cucumbers. Clearing of non-dried cucumber plants compared with clearing of dried cucumber plants significantly reduced the exposure to dust, endotoxin, bacteria, fungal spores and β-glucan. More endotoxin and fungi are emitted and more of the emitted particles were of respirable size if the leaves were dried. Along the cucumber packaging line, exposure levels were highly specific to each personal subtask. The subtask 'unloading of cucumbers' was the source of exposure making task ventilation or shielding of the process a possibility. Elimination of leaf debris on the floor reduced the exposure to fungi significantly. However, leaf debris on the floor did not contribute significantly to the exposure to dust, endotoxin and bacteria. Furthermore, to eliminate leaf debris, it had to be cleared away and this was associated with a higher exposure to dust and endotoxin. The age of the plants affected the exposure level to bioaerosols with higher exposures from old plants. In conclusion, different tasks and subtasks cause very different exposure levels. It is possible to reduce exposure by identifying subtasks causing the exposure and by modifying work processes, e.g., not drying out of plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Mette Madsen
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, DK-2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.
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Mulloy KB, Sumner SA, Rose C, Conway GA, Reynolds SJ, Davidson ME, Heidel DS, Layde PM. Renewable energy and occupational health and safety research directions: a white paper from the Energy Summit, Denver Colorado, April 11-13, 2011. Am J Ind Med 2013; 56:1359-70. [PMID: 23996832 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Renewable energy production may offer advantages to human health by way of less pollution and fewer climate-change associated ill-health effects. Limited data suggests that renewable energy will also offer benefits to workers in the form of reduced occupational injury, illness and deaths. However, studies of worker safety and health in the industry are limited. The Mountain and Plains Education and Research Center (MAP ERC) Energy Summit held in April 2011 explored issues concerning worker health and safety in the renewable energy industry. The limited information on hazards of working in the renewable energy industry emphasizes the need for further research. Two basic approaches to guiding both prevention and future research should include: (1) applying lessons learned from other fields of occupational safety and health, particularly the extractive energy industry; and (2) utilizing knowledge of occupational hazards of specific materials and processes used in the renewable energy industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen B. Mulloy
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health; Colorado School of Public Health; Aurora; Colorado
| | - Steven A. Sumner
- Department of Medicine; Duke University Medical Center; Durham; North Carolina
| | - Cecile Rose
- Division of Environmental and Occupational Health; National Jewish Health; Denver; Colorado
| | - George A. Conway
- Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing Program, Alaska Pacific Regional Office; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Anchorage; Alaska
| | - Stephen J. Reynolds
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences; Colorado State University; Ft. Collins; Colorado
| | - Margaret E. Davidson
- High Plains Intermountain Center for Agricultural Health and Safety; Colorado State University; Ft. Collins; Colorado
| | - Donna S. Heidel
- Education and Information Division; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health; Cincinnati; Ohio
| | - Peter M. Layde
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Injury Research Center; Medical College of Wisconsin; Milwaukee; Wisconsin
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Madsen AM, Tendal K, Thilsing T, Frederiksen MW, Baelum J, Hansen JV. Fungi, β-glucan, and bacteria in nasal lavage of greenhouse workers and their relation to occupational exposure. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 57:1030-40. [PMID: 23749501 PMCID: PMC3796760 DOI: 10.1093/annhyg/met019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The nose and mouth are the first regions of the respiratory tract in contact with airborne microorganisms. Occupational exposures to airborne microorganisms are associated with inflammation and different symptoms of the airways. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relation between occupational exposure to fungi, β-glucan, and bacteria and contents of fungi, β-glucan, and bacteria in nasal lavage (NAL) of greenhouse workers. We also studied whether contents of microorganisms in NAL were related to gender, time of the work week, and runny nose. NAL samples (n = 135) were taken Monday morning and Thursday at noon and personal exposure to inhalable bioaerosols was measured during a working day. The content of fungi and β-glucan in NAL of men was affected by their exposure to fungi and β-glucan. The content of fungi, β-glucan, and bacteria in NAL was higher Thursday at noon than Monday morning. The ratios of fungi in NAL between Thursday at noon and Monday morning were 14 (median value) for men and 3.5 for women. Gender had no effect on the exposure level but had a significant effect on the content of fungi, β-glucan, and bacteria in NAL, with the highest contents in NAL of men. On Thursdays, the median content of fungi in NAL samples of men without runny noses was 9408 cfu per NAL sample, whereas the same content for women was 595 cfu per NAL sample. Workers with runny noses had fewer fungi in NAL than workers without runny noses. A higher content of β-glucan per fungal spore was found in NAL than in the air. This indicates that mainly the larger fungal spores or pollen grains deposit in the nose. The difference between genders and the fact that the content of fungi in NAL was significantly affected by the exposure indicate that the two genders are affected by the same exposure level differently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Mette Madsen
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
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17
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Adhikari A, Reponen T, Rylander R. Airborne fungal cell fragments in homes in relation to total fungal biomass. INDOOR AIR 2013; 23:142-147. [PMID: 22804753 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0668.2012.00799.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2012] [Accepted: 06/25/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Fungal exposure may induce respiratory symptoms. The causative agents are compounds in the fungal cell wall. Fragments of microbes may be present in air samples but are not measurable using conventional spore counting or by the determination of viable organisms. This study assesses the proportion of fungal cell biomass and endotoxin in different particle size fractions in air samples from homes. Air samples were collected from 15 homes using a cyclone sampler, collecting particles in three aerodynamic size fractions: <1.0, 1.0-1.8, and >1.8 μm. N-Acetylhexosaminidase (NAHA) was determined as a marker of fungal cell biomass. Endotoxin was determined using the Limulus amebocyte lysate method. NAHA and endotoxin in the size range <1.0 μm comprised up to 63% (mean 22.7%) and 96.3% (mean 22.6%) of the total concentrations, respectively. There were significant relationships between the amounts of NAHA and endotoxin in the total amount and in the size fraction >1.8 μm but not in the smaller fractions. The results demonstrate significant amounts of fungal cell biomass and endotoxin in particles <1.0 μm. Homes with reported mold damage had a lower concentration of NAHA in particles <1.0 μm than homes without mold damage. To assess airborne exposure for diagnostic and preventive purposes, measurement techniques that include this fraction should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Adhikari
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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Seasonal variations of indoor microbial exposures and their relation to temperature, relative humidity, and air exchange rate. Appl Environ Microbiol 2012; 78:8289-97. [PMID: 23001651 DOI: 10.1128/aem.02069-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Indoor microbial exposure has been related to adverse pulmonary health effects. Exposure assessment is not standardized, and various factors may affect the measured exposure. The aim of this study was to investigate the seasonal variation of selected microbial exposures and their associations with temperature, relative humidity, and air exchange rates in Danish homes. Airborne inhalable dust was sampled in five Danish homes throughout the four seasons of 1 year (indoors, n = 127; outdoors, n = 37). Measurements included culturable fungi and bacteria, endotoxin, N-acetyl-beta-d-glucosaminidase, total inflammatory potential, particles (0.75 to 15 μm), temperature, relative humidity, and air exchange rates. Significant seasonal variation was found for all indoor microbial exposures, excluding endotoxin. Indoor fungi peaked in summer (median, 235 CFU/m(3)) and were lowest in winter (median, 26 CFU/m(3)). Indoor bacteria peaked in spring (median, 2,165 CFU/m(3)) and were lowest in summer (median, 240 CFU/m(3)). Concentrations of fungi were predominately higher outdoors than indoors, whereas bacteria, endotoxin, and inhalable dust concentrations were highest indoors. Bacteria and endotoxin correlated with the mass of inhalable dust and number of particles. Temperature and air exchange rates were positively associated with fungi and N-acetyl-beta-d-glucosaminidase and negatively with bacteria and the total inflammatory potential. Although temperature, relative humidity, and air exchange rates were significantly associated with several indoor microbial exposures, they could not fully explain the observed seasonal variations when tested in a mixed statistical model. In conclusion, the season significantly affects indoor microbial exposures, which are influenced by temperature, relative humidity, and air exchange rates.
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Goncharuk VV, Lapshin VB, Chichaeva MA, Syroezhkin AV. The atmosphere as a colloid system. J WATER CHEM TECHNO+ 2012. [DOI: 10.3103/s1063455x11060014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Singh U, Levin L, Grinshpun SA, Schaffer C, Adhikari A, Reponen T. Influence of home characteristics on airborne and dustborne endotoxin and β-D-glucan. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 13:3246-53. [PMID: 22012201 DOI: 10.1039/c1em10446b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the associations between airborne and dustborne microbial contaminants (endotoxin and β-D-glucan) and estimate the effects of home characteristics on exposure levels of these microbial contaminants. Endotoxin and β-D-glucan concentrations in airborne inhalable particles, airborne PM1 (<1 μm) and vacuumed dust from 184 residential homes were determined using specific Limulus amebocyte assays. Home characteristics were recorded by visual inspection and questionnaires. Linear regression and correlation analyses were performed. Inhalable endotoxin correlated with dust endotoxin (r = 0.34, p < 0.001) and PM1 endotoxin (r = 0.33, p < 0.001). Inhalable β-D-glucan correlated with dust β-D-glucan (r = 0.18, p < 0.01), but not with PM1 β-D-glucan. Significant correlation was also found between PM1 and dust concentrations for endotoxin (r = 0.26, p < 0.001), but not for β-D-glucan. Multivariate regression analyses showed only one significant association between airborne contaminants and environmental characteristics: inhalable β-D-glucan was positively associated with relative humidity with an effect size (change in the dependent variable corresponding to a unit increase in the independent variable) of 2.32 and p < 0.05. In contrast, several associations were found between dust concentrations and environmental characteristics. Dust endotoxin was positively associated with temperature (2.87, p < 0.01) and number of inhabitants (2.76, p < 0.01), whereas dust β-D-glucan was inversely associated with the presence of dogs (-2.24, p < 0.05) and carpet (-3.05, p < 0.01) in the home. In conclusion, dustborne contaminants were more strongly affected by home characteristics than airborne contaminants. Furthermore, even though statistically significant, the correlations between airborne and dustborne contaminants were weak. This indicates that airborne concentrations cannot be reliably predicted based on dustborne concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umesh Singh
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati, P.O. Box 670056, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0056, USA
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Cohn CA, Lemieux CL, Long AS, Kystol J, Vogel U, White PA, Madsen AM. Physical-chemical and microbiological characterization, and mutagenic activity of airborne PM sampled in a biomass-fueled electrical production facility. ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS 2011; 52:319-330. [PMID: 20872826 DOI: 10.1002/em.20628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2010] [Accepted: 07/28/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Biomass combustion is used in heating and electric power generation in many areas of the world. Airborne particulate matter (PM) is released when biomass is brought to a facility, stored, and combusted. Occupational exposure to airborne PM within biomass-fueled facilities may lead to health problems. In March and August of 2006, airborne PM was collected from a biomass-fueled facility located in Denmark. In addition, source-specific PM was generated from straw and wood pellets using a rotating drum. The PM was analyzed for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), metals, microbial components, mutagenic activity, and ability to generate highly reactive oxygen species (hROS) in cell-free aqueous suspensions. PM collected from the boiler room and the biomass storage hall had higher levels of mutagenic activity, PAHs and metals, and a higher hROS generating potential than the source specific PM. The mutagenic activity was generally more potent without S9 activation, and on the metabolically enhanced strain YG1041, relative to TA98. Significant correlations were found between mutagenicity on YG1041 (without S9) and PAH concentration and mutagenicity on YG1041 (with S9) and hROS generating ability. PM collected in March was more toxic than PM collected in August. Overall, airborne PM collected from the facility, especially that from the boiler room, were more toxic than PM generated from straw and wood chips. The results suggest that exposure to combustion PM in a biomass-fueled facility, which likely includes PM from biomass combustion as well as internal combustion vehicles, may contribute to an elevated risk of adverse health effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corey A Cohn
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Terčelj M, Salobir B, Harlander M, Rylander R. Fungal exposure in homes of patients with sarcoidosis - an environmental exposure study. Environ Health 2011; 10:8. [PMID: 21251285 PMCID: PMC3036600 DOI: 10.1186/1476-069x-10-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2010] [Accepted: 01/20/2011] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is increasing evidence that exposure to moulds (fungi) may influence the development of sarcoidosis. To assess the influence of the environmental exposure, a study was undertaken to determine the exposure to fungi in homes of subjects with sarcoidosis. METHODS Subjects were patients with clinically established sarcoidosis recruited during the period September 2007 till June 2010. Of these 55 were newly diagnosed and currently under treatment for less than one year, 25 had been treated and had no recurrence and 27 had been treated but had recurrence of the disease. Controls were healthy subjects without any respiratory symptoms (n = 30). Samples of air (about 2.5 m3) were taken in the bedroom of the subjects using a portable pump and cellulose ester filters. The filters were analysed for the content of the enzyme N-acetylhexosaminidase (NAHA) as a marker of fungal cell biomass, using a specific substrate and a fluorescent technique and expressed as NAHA units (U)/m3. RESULTS Compared to controls, subjects undergoing treatment of the disease (newly diagnosed or with recurrence) had significantly higher activities of NAHA in their homes than controls (33.6 and 39.9 vs 10.0 U/m3, p < 0.001 and <0.001). Among controls only 5 out of 30 subjects had levels of NAHA above the second quartile value (14 U/m3). In homes of subjects with newly diagnosed disease with treatment less than one year, values above 14 NAHA U/m3 were found among 35 out of 55 and among those with recurrent disease among 18 out of 27. CONCLUSIONS The higher activities of NAHA enzyme found in homes of subjects with active and recurrent sarcoidosis suggest that exposure to fungi is related to the risk of sarcoidosis. Further environmental studies to assess the importance of this exposure for subjects with sarcoidosis are warranted. The results suggest that remedial actions in homes with high levels of fungi may be justified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjeta Terčelj
- Clinic of Respiratory Diseases and Allergy, University Medical Centre, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Barbara Salobir
- Clinic of Respiratory Diseases and Allergy, University Medical Centre, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Matevz Harlander
- Clinic of Respiratory Diseases and Allergy, University Medical Centre, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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