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.