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Acute responses measured in a controlled human exposure to 1-octen-3-ol

Wålinder R, Ernstgård L, Norbäck D, Wieslander G, Johanson G (2008) · Toxicology Letters 181(3):141–147

In a double-blind controlled exposure, volunteers exposed to the fungal volatile 1-octen-3-ol for two hours showed measured nasal inflammatory markers and reported symptoms.

What they studied

Twenty-nine healthy volunteers in a double-blind controlled exposure chamber study.

Two-hour exposure to 1-octen-3-ol, the compound most associated with the odor of moldy buildings, versus control air.

Measurement of nasal lavage inflammatory biomarkers, blink frequency, lung function, and symptom reports.

What they found

The authors reported elevated nasal inflammatory biomarkers after exposure.

Eye irritation, increased blink frequency, headache, and nausea were reported by exposed subjects.

A decrease in measured vital capacity was reported after exposure.

What it does not establish

Twenty-nine subjects, one compound, two hours — a small, short experiment.

Chamber concentrations were experimental and not drawn from a measured residence.

Acute responses do not establish outcomes from long-term residential exposure.

This entry reports the study. It is not a statement about any building Sage Co. designs or constructs.

Source

  • Wålinder R, Ernstgård L, Norbäck D, Wieslander G, Johanson G (2008). Acute effects of 1-octen-3-ol, a microbial volatile organic compound (MVOC) — an experimental study · Toxicology Letters 181(3):141–147 · Read at the source

Last reviewed August 30, 2026.

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