requiring attention and remediation (Cox-Ganser et al., 2005; Nevalainen and Seuri, 2005; Mudarri and Fisk, 2007; Fisk et al., 2007; Genuis, 2007; Bernstein et al., 2008).  The bio-contamination resulting from water intrusion includes: 1) Molds; 2) Bacteria; 3) Microbial particulates; 4) Mycotoxins;

5) Volatile Organic Compounds (nonmicrobial and microbial); 6) Proteins (e.g. secreted enzymes, hemolysins and siderophores); 7) Galactomannans (Extracellular Polysaccharides or EPS); 8) 1-3-D-Beta Glucans (glucans); and 9) Endotoxins (LPS). In this communication we review indoor biocontaminants resulting from water intrusion and their associated toxicity to animals and humans. It is apparent that the potential additive and synergistic effects of multiple contaminants in the indoor environment have been largely overlooked, except in experimental animal models (Zhou et aI., 1998, 1999, 2000; Huttunen et aI., 2004; Islam et aI., 2002, 2006a, 2007).   The study of health risks to humans from exposure to molds have been limited to respiratory disease (asthma) in adults and children (Jaakkola and Jaakkola; 2004; Rydjord, et al., 2008, Antova et al., 2008).    In this paper we also review the peer-reviewed research that points to the impacts on human health, including neurological, respiratory and immune systems and other organs, from exposure to damp indoor spaces.  More recently, the incidence of severe asthma has been associated with increased concentration of fine particulates as well as to the ERMI moldiness index (More about this under particulates section) (Vesper et al, 2007, 2009; Reponen et al, 2007).  

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