Elevated Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide Concentrations Amplify <i>Alternaria alternata</i> Sporulation and Total Antigen Production

Abstract

Elevated CO2 concentrations often increase plant leaf biomass and carbon-to-nitrogen ratio. Here we demonstrate for the first time that these leaf changes are associated with increased spore production by A. alternata, a ubiquitous allergenic fungus. This response may contribute to the increasing prevalence of allergies and asthma.