Acute effects of a fungal volatile compound

• OBJECTIVE: 3-Methylfuran (3-MF) is a common fungal volatile product with active biologic properties, and previous studies have indicated a contribution to airway disease. The aim of the present study was to assess the acute health effects of this compound in humans. DESIGN: Acute effects were assessed via chamber exposure to (1 mg/m3) 3-MF. PARTICIPANTS AND MEASUREMENTS: Twenty-nine volunteers provided symptom reports, ocular electromyograms, measurement of eye tear film break-up time,vital staining of the eye, nasal lavage, acoustic rhinometry, transfer tests, and dynamic spirometry. RESULTS: No subjective ratings were significantly increased during exposure. Blinking frequency and the lavage biomarkers myeloperoxidase and lysozyme were significantly increased, and forced vital capacity was significantly decreased during exposure to 3-MF compared with air control. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: Acute effects in the eyes, nose, and airways were detected and might be the result of the biologically active properties of 3-MF. Thus, 3-MF may contribute to building-related illness.

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