Built Environment Microbiology
Groundbreaking research on the microbes in built environments is compatible with the PHM hypothesis[1,18,19]. Over 150 fungal and dozens of bacterial allergens have been found[18]. A study of 15 persons using wearable sampling devices found that over 2500 species of microbes were encountered, and 43.7% of the DNA information could not be classified[20].
Horve et al[18] pointed out how harsh conditions, including exposure to cleaning solutions, could lead to mutant forms. Gilbert et al[19] discussed new materials, which are treated with diverse chemicals, thus providing unique selective pressures that could shape microbial evolution. The new species/strains that could result would fit the category of novel PHM.