Microbial airborne particles associated with commuter transport micro-environments

What is it about?

Air quality inside transport environments is an important public health issue. However, there is currently limited information on commuter exposure to the microbial fraction of airborne particles (i.e. bioaerosols) in different types of transport. This study investigated the microbial abundance and diversity of aerosols in public trains and private automobiles in the UK using molecular biology approaches. Results showed that while several common bacterial and fungal taxa, including human commensals and outdoor-originating micro-organisms, were found between the two transport modes, distinct bacterial and fungal communities were also found. In addition, several microbial taxa of human health concern were found in the air of both modes of transport.

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Photo by Edwin Petrus on Unsplash

Photo by Edwin Petrus on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Currently there is a lack of data on the microbial fraction of airborne particles that commuters are exposed to. This investigation provides an important insight into the aerosol microbiome in train and car transport micro-environments. Studies characterizing the microbial aerosols in transportation environments are crucial for the evaluation of commuter exposure to potential health risks.