Cutting-Edge Research: DNA MEETS DUST, Mold Inspection/Remediation…valuable new sampling metric for field use (Explainer Video)>>>

A 2020 study shared with INDEX by Dr. Richard Shaughnessy explores how DNA sequencing uses a simple doorsill dust sample to quickly find 100% of moldy homes while eliminating others.

Science Summary:

By analyzing settled dust samples across various American climates, researchers discovered that water-damaged buildings exhibit significantly lower fungal richness and unique microbial structures compared to unaffected residences. While common genera like Aspergillus and Penicillium appear in most environments, specific amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) serve as precise indicators of indoor growth. These ecological fingerprints were used to train a Random Forest model, which successfully identified 100% of moldy homes and 90% of clean homes. This advanced computational approach offers a more reliable alternative to traditional inspections, potentially improving public health outcomes by identifying hidden hazards.

Study Details:

DNA Sequence-Based Approach for Classifying the Mold Status of Buildings

Citation: Environ. Sci. Technol. 2020, 54, 15968 15975

Scientists:

• Bridget Hegarty
• Annabelle Pan
• Ulla Haverinen-Shaughnessy
• Richard Shaughnessy
• Jordan Peccia

The research is continuing to move forward, and we expect to have additional data and updates to share in the future.

Please note that the Explainer Video above may include inaccuracies.  For questions, please contact:

Richard Shaughnessy PhD
University of Tulsa
Program director, indoor air research
2611 S. Trenton Ave.
Tulsa, Oklahoma 74114
Phone: 918-230-3908