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

Published on: May 2, 2018

The possible role of fungal contamination in sick building syndrome

David C Straus1

  • 1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas 79430, USA. david.straus@ttuhsc.edu

Frontiers in Bioscience (Elite Edition)
|January 4, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Molds in air handling units are linked to sick building syndrome (SBS). Research shows specific molds produce mycotoxins, detectable in humans and animals, highlighting indoor air quality concerns.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Science
  • Mycology
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) is a significant health concern linked to indoor environments.
  • Molds, particularly in Air Handling Units (AHUs), are suspected contributors to SBS.
  • Previous research has identified various mold species and their potential health impacts.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review research on the role of molds in Sick Building Syndrome (SBS).
  • To investigate mold contamination in Air Handling Units (AHUs).
  • To examine the growth, mycotoxin production, and detection of specific molds and their toxins.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of mold contamination in AHUs, identifying species and locations.
  • Controlled studies on Chaetomium globosum (CG) growth and mycotoxin production on building materials.
  • Investigation of mycotoxin detection in biological samples (body fluids, tissues) from exposed individuals and experimental animals.

Main Results:

  • Cladosporium sp. commonly found in AHUs; non-blower wheel contamination indicates suboptimal conditions.
  • Chaetomium globosum (CG) produces potent mycotoxins (chaetoglobosin A and C) on building materials, favored at neutral pH and below 75°C.
  • Mycotoxins are detectable in human tissues/fluids and experimental animal tissues following exposure; Stachybotrys chartarum (SC) mycotoxins (MTM) show rapid detectability and tissue loading dynamics.

Conclusions:

  • Molds in AHUs are significant contributors to SBS.
  • Understanding mold growth, mycotoxin production, and detection is crucial for managing indoor air quality.
  • These findings have implications for diagnosing and mitigating health effects associated with mold exposure.

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