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Occupational farm work activities influence workers' indoor home microbiome
Kathryn R Dalton1, Mikyeong Lee1, Ziyue Wang2
1Genomics and the Environment in Respiratory and Allergic Health Group, Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, USA.
Environmental Research
|December 5, 2023
Summary
Farm work tasks and pesticide use significantly alter the home dust microbiome. These changes in the indoor microbiome may link occupational exposures to farmer health and family well-being.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Microbiology
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Farm work involves diverse exposures impacting farmer health.
- The indoor home microbiome may be influenced by occupational exposures.
- The relationship between specific farm exposures and home microbial composition is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate associations between farm work activities and pesticide use with the indoor microbiome.
- To analyze the dust microbiome in the homes of 468 male farmers.
Main Methods:
- Whole-genome shotgun sequencing of dust samples from farmers' bedrooms.
- Evaluation of 6 farm work tasks and 19 currently used/7 banned pesticide ingredients via questionnaires.
- Analysis of associations between exposures and microbial diversity and composition.
Main Results:
- All 6 farm tasks increased microbial diversity and altered composition, with a dose-response effect.
- Specific microbes, including soil-based commensals, were more abundant.
- Glyphosate and lindane use correlated with increased microbial diversity; multiple pesticides altered microbial composition.
Conclusions:
- Farm activities and pesticide exposures uniquely impact the home dust microbiome.
- Alterations in the home microbiome may mediate the health effects of occupational exposures on farmers and families.
- Findings suggest potential targets for future health interventions.
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