Temporal dynamics and interannual variability of Alternaria Ness. spores and Alt a 1 allergen in Zonguldak, Türkiye: first results

Alternaria is a common airborne fungus known to cause allergies and asthma. Its spores through the allergen Alt a 1 are significant contributors to respiratory issues. This study investigates the concentration of Alternaria spores and the allergen Alt a 1 in Zonguldak, Türkiye, from 2015 to 2017. Spore and allergen Alt a 1 samples were collected using a Burkard spore trap and a BGI900 High-volume Air Sampler, respectively, during the main spore season from June to September. The highest spore concentrations were recorded in 2015 and 2016, significantly higher than in 2017. Monthly variations showed peak spore concentrations in August for 2015, July for 2016 and 2017. The highest Alt a 1 allergen concentration was observed in 2017, despite lower spore counts. The substantial increase in rainfall during August 2016 and 2017, compared to 2015, likely contributed to the reduced spore concentrations observed in those years. Alt a 1 allergen concentrations exhibited peak levels in August for 2015, July for 2016, and 2017. The study identified significant day-to-day and year-to-year variability in spore allergenicity, with 2017 exhibiting the highest allergen per spore ratio. Correlation analysis between meteorological parameters and spore/allergen concentrations revealed that air temperature positively influenced spore and allergen levels in 2015 and 2016, while relative humidity and air pressure had variable effects. Wind direction also played a crucial role, with higher allergen concentrations associated with southern winds. The study highlights the complex relationship between environmental factors and airborne spore/allergen levels, emphasizing the significant impact of meteorological conditions over agricultural practices. These findings contribute to understanding the variability in fungal spore concentrations and their allergenicity, offering insights for better management of allergenic diseases in regions with similar climatic and geographical conditions.