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Identification and possible disease mechanisms of an under-recognized fungus, Aureobasidium pullulans

Philip E Taylor1, Robert Esch, Richard C Flagan

  • 1Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA. taylor@caltech.edu

International Archives of Allergy and Immunology
|November 9, 2005
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Aureobasidium pullulans (black yeast) conidia from flowers are common in outdoor air, potentially triggering allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. This study identified flowers as a major source of these airborne fungal allergens.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental microbiology
  • Allergen research
  • Mycology

Background:

  • Limited data exists on yeast-like fungi in US outdoor air and their health impacts.
  • Research is needed to identify airborne fungi and their sources, particularly in relation to allergies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Identify a common, respirable-sized fungus in Pasadena's air.
  • Determine the primary source of fungal emissions.
  • Investigate the fungus's role in allergic diseases.

Main Methods:

  • Environmental fungal sampling, isolation, microscopy, and DNA sequencing.
  • Allergy patient skin testing and serum IgE analysis.
  • Controlled emission chamber analysis of local vegetation.

Main Results:

  • Hyaline unicellular conidia, identified as Aureobasidium pullulans (black yeast), were abundant (up to 90% of fungal counts).
  • Flowers were identified as a major emission source, with peak concentrations during specific weather conditions.
  • 17% of atopic individuals showed positive skin test reactions to A. pullulans, and IgE analysis revealed specific allergens.

Conclusions:

  • Respirable A. pullulans conidia emitted from flowers reach high atmospheric concentrations.
  • These conidia are linked to immediate allergic skin test reactivity and IgE binding.
  • A. pullulans may be a significant factor in allergic upper and lower airway diseases.

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