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Characterization and pro-inflammatory responses of spore and hyphae samples from various mold species

E Øya1, A K J Afanou2, N Malla3

  • 1Department of Air and Noise, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway.

Indoor Air
|September 19, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Mold particles from common fungi can cause respiratory issues. Hyphae fragments, particularly from Aspergillus fumigatus and Penicillium chrysogenum, are more potent inflammatory agents than spores, depending on species and growth stage.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental microbiology
  • Immunology
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Mold particles from Aspergillus fumigatus, Penicillium chrysogenum, Aspergillus versicolor, and Stachybotrys chartarum are associated with respiratory diseases.
  • Understanding the pro-inflammatory properties of different mold components is crucial for assessing health risks.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize X-ray-inactivated mold particles (spores and hyphae) from four species.
  • To evaluate the pro-inflammatory potential of these particles in human cell models.
  • To identify key factors influencing mold-induced inflammation.

Main Methods:

  • Characterization of mold particles by particle count, morphology, mycotoxin, beta-glucan, and protease content/activity.
  • Assessment of pro-inflammatory effects in human bronchial epithelial cells (BEAS-2B) and THP-1 monocytes/macrophages.
  • Analysis of metalloprotease (proMMP-9) release.

Main Results:

  • Hyphae fragments were more potent inflammatory agents than spores for Aspergillus fumigatus and Penicillium chrysogenum.
  • Aspergillus versicolor and Stachybotrys chartarum showed the opposite trend, with spores being more potent.
  • Hyphae of A. fumigatus, P. chrysogenum, and A. versicolor significantly enhanced proMMP-9 release.
  • PMA-differentiated THP-1 macrophages were the most sensitive cell model.

Conclusions:

  • Mold species, growth stage (spores vs. hyphae), and specific particle characteristics significantly influence pro-inflammatory potential.
  • Hyphae fragments are potent inducers of inflammation, particularly from certain mold species.
  • Further research into mold-related respiratory diseases should consider these varying factors.
Keywords:
cytokinesmold particlesmorphologymycotoxinsproteasesβ-glucans

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