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Published on: August 23, 2018
The effects of fungal volatile organic compounds on bone marrow stromal cells
Kirsten Hokeness1, Jacqueline Kratch, Christina Nadolny
1Department of Science and Technology, Bryant University, 1150 Douglas Pike, Smithfield, RI 02917, USA.
Abstract:
Evidence has shown that individuals exposed to indoor toxic molds for extended periods of time have elevated risk of developing numerous respiratory illnesses. It is not clear at the cellular level what impact mold exposure has on the immune system. Herein, we show that 2 fungal volatiles (E)-2-octenal and oct-1-en-3-ol have cytotoxic effects on murine bone marrow stromal cells. To further analyze alterations to the cell, we evaluated the impact these volatile organic compounds have on membrane composition and hence fluidity. Both (E)-2-octenal and oct-1-en-3-ol exposure caused a shift to unsaturated fatty acids and lower cholesterol levels in the membrane. This indicates that the volatile organic compounds under investigation increased membrane fluidity. These vast changes to the cell membrane are known to contribute to the breakdown of normal cell function and possibly lead to death. Since bone marrow stromal cells are vital for the appropriate development and activation of immune cells, this study provides the foundation for understanding the mechanism at a cellular level for how mold exposure can lead to immune-related disease conditions.
Insights
Indoor toxic mold exposure can harm immune cells. Two fungal volatile compounds, (E)-2-octenal and oct-1-en-3-ol, were found to increase cell membrane fluidity, potentially disrupting immune cell development and function.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Prolonged exposure to indoor toxic molds is linked to increased respiratory illnesses.
- The precise cellular mechanisms by which mold exposure impacts the immune system remain unclear.
- Murine bone marrow stromal cells are critical for immune cell development and activation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cellular effects of specific fungal volatile organic compounds (VOCs) on murine bone marrow stromal cells.
- To determine the impact of these VOCs on cell membrane composition and fluidity.
- To elucidate the cellular basis for mold-induced immune dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- Exposure of murine bone marrow stromal cells to two fungal volatiles: (E)-2-octenal and oct-1-en-3-ol.
- Analysis of cell membrane composition, specifically fatty acid profiles and cholesterol levels.
- Evaluation of changes in membrane fluidity following VOC exposure.
Main Results:
- Both (E)-2-octenal and oct-1-en-3-ol demonstrated cytotoxic effects on murine bone marrow stromal cells.
- Exposure to these VOCs resulted in a shift towards unsaturated fatty acids and decreased cholesterol in the cell membrane.
- These alterations significantly increased cell membrane fluidity.
Conclusions:
- The studied fungal VOCs can induce significant changes in cell membrane composition and fluidity.
- Increased membrane fluidity can lead to impaired cell function and potential cell death.
- This study provides a cellular-level understanding of how mold exposure may contribute to immune-related diseases.
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01:15Antifungal Agents