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Updated: Jul 14, 2026
Histological Quantification to Determine Lung Fungal Burden in Experimental Aspergillosis
Published on: March 9, 2018
Real-time PCR for detection of the Aspergillus genus
Marian D Goebes1, Lynn M Hildemann, Elmira Kujundzic
1Stanford University, Civil and Environmental Engineering Dept, Terman Engineering Center B13, Stanford, CA 94305, USA. mdgoebes@stanfordalumni.org
Abstract:
Aspergillus is a genus of mold that has strong indoor sources, including several species capable of acting as opportunistic pathogens. Previous studies suggest that Aspergillus could serve as an indicator for abnormal mold growth or moisture, making it an important genus for environmental monitoring. Here, a quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR, or real-time PCR) assay is presented for Aspergillus. The assay shows good specificity for the genus, detecting all Aspergillus species tested, although a few non-Aspergillus species are also amplified. Sensitivity testing demonstrates that DNA representing one conidium can be detected. A validation study compared qPCR results against direct microscopy counts using A. fumigatus conidia aerosolized into a laboratory chamber. The assay was then used to quantify Aspergillus in indoor air samples, demonstrating its utility for environmental monitoring. Analysis of a small number of clinical sputum samples showed complete agreement with culturing results.
Insights
A new quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay accurately detects Aspergillus mold in indoor air and clinical samples. This method offers a sensitive tool for environmental monitoring and disease diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Aspergillus mold species are common indoor contaminants and opportunistic pathogens.
- Aspergillus presence can indicate moisture issues and abnormal fungal growth.
- Accurate environmental monitoring of Aspergillus is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay for the detection and quantification of Aspergillus species.
- To assess the assay's specificity, sensitivity, and utility in environmental and clinical settings.
Main Methods:
- Development of a genus-specific qPCR assay for Aspergillus.
- Testing assay specificity against various Aspergillus and non-Aspergillus species.
- Determining assay sensitivity down to single conidium detection.
- Validation against direct microscopy for airborne Aspergillus fumigatus.
- Application of the assay to quantify Aspergillus in indoor air samples.
- Comparison with traditional culturing methods for clinical sputum samples.
Main Results:
- The qPCR assay demonstrated high specificity for the Aspergillus genus, detecting all tested species.
- A few non-Aspergillus species were also amplified, indicating potential cross-reactivity.
- The assay was highly sensitive, capable of detecting DNA from a single conidium.
- Validation studies showed good agreement with direct microscopy counts.
- The assay successfully quantified Aspergillus in indoor air samples.
- Clinical sputum sample analysis showed complete concordance with culturing results.
Conclusions:
- The developed qPCR assay is a specific and sensitive tool for quantifying Aspergillus in environmental air samples.
- This assay is a valuable method for environmental monitoring of indoor mold contamination.
- The assay shows promise for clinical diagnostics, aligning with traditional culturing methods.
