Marker antigens to assess exposure to molds and their allergens. I. Aspergillus fumigatus

Background: Exposure to molds and mold products in the indoor environment m ay lead to allergies, asthma, or respiratory complaints in general. Enumera tion of viable parts of molds in the environment is insufficient to estimat e exposure. Therefore, other methods have to be developed. Methods: Aspergillus fumigatus (Af) was grown under various circumstances ( 22 degrees C and 30 degrees C, high and low water activity) in the laborato ry. At various moments during culture, extracts were taken, and antigen and allergen content was examined by acrylamide electrophoresis and immunoblot . Results: In extracts of the culture filtrate, two antigens were found to be produced under all studied growth conditions (common antigens). In the ext racts of the water-soluble portion of the mycelium, one common antigen was found. Conclusions: The three common antigens may serve as marker antigens for exp osure to Af and its products. In view of the simultaneous presence of two o f these common antigens with Af allergens, these two marker antigens may be used to estimate exposure to allergens of Af.