Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 6, 2026

Efficient Method for Imaging Murine Lungs that Preserves Spatial Dynamics of Fungal Spores in the Airways
10:06

Efficient Method for Imaging Murine Lungs that Preserves Spatial Dynamics of Fungal Spores in the Airways

Published on: December 13, 2024

Specific molds associated with asthma in water-damaged homes

Stephen J Vesper1, Craig McKinstry, Chin Yang

  • 1U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Cincinnati, Ohio 45268, USA. vesper.stephen@epa.gov

Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
|August 12, 2006
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Specific molds like Scopulariopsis brevicaulis and Trichoderma viride were found in higher concentrations in water-damaged homes of children with asthma. This suggests a link between indoor mold exposure and childhood asthma development.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Science
  • Public Health
  • Mycology

Background:

  • Water-damaged buildings are common sources of indoor mold exposure.
  • Exposure to indoor molds has been linked to respiratory issues, including asthma.
  • Asthma prevalence is a significant public health concern, particularly in children.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate whether specific mold species are present in higher concentrations in water-damaged homes occupied by children with asthma compared to control homes.
  • To identify potential mold indicators associated with asthma development in indoor environments.

Main Methods:

  • Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was used to measure mold concentrations in dust samples.
  • Samples were collected from bedrooms of asthmatic children in water-damaged homes (N=60) and control homes (N=22).
  • Specific mold-specific qPCR assays were employed for accurate quantification.

Main Results:

  • Scopulariopsis brevicaulis and Trichoderma viride showed significantly higher concentrations (P < 0.05) in homes with asthmatic children.
  • Penicillium crustosum group, Stachybotrys chartarum, and Wallemia sebi also showed elevated concentrations (P < 0.1).
  • These findings indicate a differential mold presence in homes associated with childhood asthma.

Conclusions:

  • A relative moldiness index was developed to assess the risk of asthma development in water-damaged homes.
  • The study highlights specific molds that may serve as biomarkers for asthma risk in affected households.
  • Findings can inform public health strategies for managing indoor environments to mitigate asthma triggers.

More Related Videos

Collection and Extraction of Occupational Air Samples for Analysis of Fungal DNA12:02

Collection and Extraction of Occupational Air Samples for Analysis of Fungal DNA

Published on: May 2, 2018

Related Concept Videos

Asthma I: Introduction01:28

Asthma I: Introduction

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways characterized by variable airflow obstruction and heightened bronchial responsiveness to a wide range of triggers. The underlying inflammation leads to airway swelling, mucus hypersecretion, and smooth muscle constriction, all of which narrow the airway lumen and impede airflow. Clinically, asthma presents with recurrent episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, symptoms that typically vary in intensity and...
Asthma-I: Introduction01:29

Asthma-I: Introduction

Asthma is a chronic respiratory ailment that requires careful management due to its varying symptoms and influencing factors. It is characterized by airway inflammation, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, and reversible airflow obstruction, leading to symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. The symptom frequency and intensity may vary considerably over time. It is also linked to immune system responses to allergens and irritants, highlighting the complex...
Asthma III: Clinical Manifestations01:13

Asthma III: Clinical Manifestations

Asthma presents with a characteristic pattern of episodic respiratory symptoms that reflect underlying airway inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and mucus hypersecretion. Although severity varies among individuals, certain clinical manifestations are considered hallmarks of the disorder and often guide diagnosis and assessment.Respiratory SymptomsA persistent cough is one of the most common early features of asthma. It is frequently dry and tends to worsen at night or in the early morning,...
Asthma-III: Symptoms and Complications01:24

Asthma-III: Symptoms and Complications

Asthma, a common chronic respiratory condition, is classified considering the frequency and severity of symptoms alongside lung function impairment. Understanding this classification is essential for appropriate treatment and management. Here's a detailed look at the classification of asthma and its clinical features and complications:
Classification of Asthma
Asthma-II: Pathophysiology and Classification01:26

Asthma-II: Pathophysiology and Classification

Asthma is a prevalent chronic respiratory condition marked by inflammation and hyperresponsiveness of the airways. Its pathophysiology involves complex interactions among inflammatory pathways, immune responses, and neural mechanisms.
Additionally, environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's susceptibility to asthma and the severity of their condition.
Critical processes in asthma pathophysiology include:
Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management01:20

Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management

Asthma is a chronic pulmonary condition involving inflammation of the airways, hyper-reactivity, and reversible obstruction of the airways. This condition can significantly impact a person's quality of life, making breathing difficult and leading to distressing symptoms.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.