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.