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Stachybotrys chartarum: a fungus for our time.
1Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA. bj6@umail.umd.edu
Phytochemistry
|August 30, 2003
Summary
Stachybotrys chartarum and Memnoniella echinata fungi produce various toxic compounds. This review details the production of trichothecenes, phenolics, and atranones from these fungi found in damp buildings.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Environmental Science
- Toxicology
Background:
- Stachybotrys chartarum is a fungus associated with damp buildings and potential building-related illnesses.
- This fungus produces secondary metabolites, including trichothecenes, triprenylated phenolics, and a novel class of diterpenoids named atranones.
- A related species, Memnoniella echinata, also synthesizes trichothecenes and triprenylated phenolics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the production of secondary metabolites by Stachybotrys chartarum and Memnoniella echinata.
- To highlight the chemical diversity of compounds produced by these fungi.
- To provide an overview of the biosynthesis of atranones, trichothecenes, and phenolics.
Main Methods:
- Culturing of Stachybotrys chartarum and Memnoniella echinata.
- Analysis of secondary metabolites produced by the fungi.
- Literature review of existing studies on compound production.
Main Results:
- Stachybotrys chartarum produces trichothecenes, triprenylated phenolics, and atranones.
- Memnoniella echinata produces trichothecenes and triprenylated phenolics.
- Atranonones represent a new class of diterpenoids.
Conclusions:
- Both Stachybotrys chartarum and Memnoniella echinata are significant sources of mycotoxins and other secondary metabolites.
- Understanding the production of these compounds is crucial for assessing health risks associated with indoor mold exposure.
- Further research into the biosynthesis and biological activities of these fungal metabolites is warranted.