Combined Toxicity of the Most Common Indoor Aspergilli

Abstract

The most common Aspergilli isolated from indoor air samples from occupied buildings and a grain mill were extracted and analyzed for their combined (Flavi + Nigri, Versicolores + Nigri) cytotoxic, genotoxic and pro-inflammatory properties on human adenocarcinoma cells (A549) and monocytic leukemia cells induced in macrophages (THP-1 macrophages). Metabolite mixtures from the Aspergilli series Nigri increase the cytotoxic and genotoxic potency of Flavi extracts in A549 cells suggesting additive and/or synergistic effects, while antagonizing the cytotoxic potency of Versicolores extracts in THP-1 macrophages and genotoxicity in A549 cells. All tested combinations significantly decreased IL-5 and IL-17, while IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-6 relative concentrations were increased. Exploring the toxicity of extracted Aspergilli deepens the understanding of intersections and interspecies differences in events of chronic exposure to their inhalable mycoparticles.

Part of CIRS Nexus · Curated by Lauren Lowenstein, The Biotoxin Lady

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