Mycophenolic Acid
Also known as: MPA
Overview
A mycotoxin produced by Penicillium brevicompactum and related species commonly found in water-damaged buildings. Mycophenolic acid is a potent inhibitor of inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH), a key enzyme in lymphocyte proliferation. Its presence in PBMCs is therefore directly measurable as both a chemical toxin and a functional immune suppressant — making it uniquely suited to the dual HRMS + EIS assessment approach.
Primary Sources
Inhalation in water-damaged buildings with Penicillium growth; damp building materials; also used clinically as an immunosuppressant drug (CellCept), making occupational and environmental exposure differentiation important.
Health Effects
Lymphocyte suppression, immune dysregulation, gastrointestinal toxicity, fatigue, and contribution to mold illness symptom burden in water-damaged building occupants.
Detection Method
This toxin is detected and quantified using HRMS (LC or GC) analysis of isolated PBMCs. The intracellular accumulation of this compound in lymphocytes and monocytes provides a more accurate reflection of chronic systemic burden than conventional serum or urine testing.