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Updated: Feb 6, 2026

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Toxicological interactions between biotic and abiotic components of indoor air: Mold and air fresheners

Sudheer Salana1, Avraham Moshe Friedman1, Jess Austin1

  • 1Department of Chemical, Environmental, and Materials Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA.

Journal of Hazardous Materials
|February 4, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Indoor mold and air fresheners interact, affecting human health. This study reveals that air freshener chemicals can impact mold growth and pose risks, necessitating further research for safer indoor environments.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Health
  • Toxicology
  • Indoor Air Quality

Background:

  • Indoor air quality is influenced by both biological (biotic) and non-biological (abiotic) pollutants.
  • The health impacts of these indoor air components have traditionally been studied independently.
  • Emerging research suggests interactions between biotic and abiotic indoor air pollutants necessitate a holistic health assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the toxicological relationship between Aspergillus fumigatus, a common indoor mold, and air fresheners.
  • To evaluate the cytotoxic effects of mold and air fresheners on A549 cells.
  • To analyze the impact of co-exposure on cellular responses and the chemical composition of air fresheners.

Main Methods:

  • Cytotoxicity assays on A549 cells exposed to mold and air fresheners.
  • Analysis of cellular responses to co-exposure.
  • Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) for air freshener chemical composition analysis.

Main Results:

  • Both tested air fresheners contained compounds with potential mold inhibitory and human health risks.
  • Air freshener chemical composition and concentration influenced toxicological interactions.
  • Co-exposure to Aspergillus fumigatus and air fresheners elicited specific cellular responses.

Conclusions:

  • Interactions between indoor mold and air fresheners are significant for human health.
  • Further research is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of indoor air health impacts.
  • Findings can guide air freshener manufacturers in developing safer products.
Keywords:
AerosolsHealth impactsHousehold cleaning productsSynergisticToxicityVolatile organic compounds

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