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[Fungal allergy - fungal ecology in dwelling environments]
1National Institute of Health Sciences 1-18-1, Kamiyoga, Setagaya, Tokyo 158-8501 Japan.
Abstract:
Fungi related to allergies are commonly found in dwelling environments. The predominant fungi Cladosporium, Penicillium, Aspergillus, Alternaria, Wallemia and Rhodotorula live mainly in indoor air, house dust (HD), futons, clothes and contaminated building materials. Fungi in HD are especially important allergens. The fungal CFU and predominant fungi in HD are 10(4) - 10(6)/g and are composed of xerophilic or osmophilic species Aspergillus restrictus, Wallemia and Eurotium but not many yeasts and actinomycetes. Fungal contamination of materials is a serious human health problem because the fungal cells scatter from the materials in the air or HD. The biological activities by fungi also have health implications from the viewpoint of fungal allergens. In this paper, fungal germination, enzyme activities, contaminating cell form and viable or nonviable cells are also discussed.
Insights
Common indoor fungi like Aspergillus and Cladosporium in house dust (HD) are significant allergens. Fungal contamination of homes poses health risks due to allergen exposure.
Area of Science:
- Environmental microbiology
- Allergen research
- Indoor air quality
Context:
- Fungi are ubiquitous in indoor environments, including house dust (HD), futons, and building materials.
- Key allergenic fungi identified include Cladosporium, Penicillium, Aspergillus, Alternaria, Wallemia, and Rhodotorula.
- House dust harbors high concentrations of fungal colony-forming units (CFU), predominantly xerophilic species.
Purpose:
- To highlight the prevalence and significance of indoor fungi as allergens.
- To discuss the health implications of fungal contamination in dwellings.
- To explore fungal biological activities, including germination and enzyme functions, relevant to allergenicity.
Summary:
- Predominant indoor fungi such as Aspergillus and Cladosporium are identified as major allergens found in house dust.
- Fungal contamination of indoor materials leads to airborne spores and dust, posing health risks.
- The study examines fungal germination, enzyme activities, and cell viability in relation to allergenicity.
Impact:
- Informs public health strategies for managing indoor allergens.
- Raises awareness about the health impacts of fungal exposure in residential settings.
- Provides insights into the biological mechanisms underlying fungal allergenicity.