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Fungal aerosol composition in moldy basements
Anani K Afanou1, Anne Straumfors1, Wijnand Eduard1
1National Institute of Occupational Health, Oslo, Norway.
Indoor Air
|May 21, 2019
Summary
Airborne fungal fragments, including submicron particles, are common indoors. Moldy basements show a higher proportion of fungal fragments compared to spores, unlike outdoor air.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Microbiology
- Indoor Air Quality
Background:
- Fungal fragments, especially submicron particles, are significant components of airborne fungi.
- Their prevalence and characteristics in indoor environments, particularly in relation to mold contamination, require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the types and levels of airborne fungal particles (spores, submicron fragments, larger fragments) in moldy basements.
- To compare the composition of fungal aerosols in moldy basements with control basements and outdoor air.
Main Methods:
- Airborne fungal particles were collected from moldy and control basements, and outdoor air.
- Samples were analyzed using immunogold labeling and field emission scanning electron microscopy.
- Mixed-effects modeling was used to analyze the composition of fungal aerosols.
Main Results:
- Total fungal aerosol concentrations were similar across moldy basements, control basements, and outdoor air.
- Moldy basements showed a significantly higher fraction of fungal fragments compared to spores.
- Outdoor air exhibited a significantly higher fraction of spores compared to fragments.
Conclusions:
- The composition of fungal aerosols varies significantly between indoor (moldy basements) and outdoor environments.
- Mold contamination alters the fungal aerosol profile, increasing the relative abundance of fragments.
- Future research on fungal exposure and health should account for the diverse types of fungal particles, including fragments.
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