Abstract:The relationship
between indoor exposure to toxic mold and human health is only beginning
to be understood. While evidence exists of strong correlations between
exposure and infectious and allergic diseases as well as risks of cancer
development, the effects on immune cell function is poorly understood.
This proposal is aimed at examining the mechanisms of how a fungal
pathogen can succesfully establish infection in the host by altering
normal immune cell functions. First, we will determine the
immunomodulatory effects on innate immune cells after exposure to volatile
organic compounds (VOCs) and the mycotoxin Aflatoxin (B1) which have been
shown to be secreted by toxic mold species. Secondly, we will perform
proteomic profiling on the pathogen to determine which proteins may be
involved in evading the immune stystem allowing for succesful
establishment of the pathogen in the respiratory tract of humans. These
studies will define potential mechanisms used by the fungus to evade the
immune response and establish itself in the host in order to contribute to
the development of adverse health effects. Overall, the proposed
exeriments will help to provide a solid mechnistic link between exposure
to toxic molds and disease states such as syndromes such as sick building
syndrom (SBS) and the development of tumors.
