Microbial Indicators of Latent Dampness (MOLD)

The aim of the Microbial Indicators of Latent Dampness (MOLD) was to test the utility of DNA-based (i.e., species, etc.) versus RNA-based approaches to identification of dampness and mold growth. House dust was solicited from across the United States and incubated in chambers at different relative humidity levels (i.e., 50%, 85%, and 100%) for one week. Both DNA and RNA were extracted from incubated dusts and then sequenced. Analyses were conducted to 1) compare efficacy of DNA versus RNA-based approaches and 2) to identify RNA targets potentially useful for detection of mold growth in buildings.