EMSL Scientist Discovers New Aspergillus Species

Cinnaminson,  NJ, December 21^st, 2017

A new species of Aspergillus in section Usti was identified by a group of scientists including Dr. Željko Jurjevic, Senior Mycologist at EMSL Analytical, Inc. Other key members to the discovery included Vit Hubka, Stephen W. Peterson, and Pavlina Lysková.

The new species, Aspergillus contaminans, which is morphologically similar to A. carlsbadensis, was isolated from the fingernail of a Czech patient originally thought to have mycologically proven onychomycosis caused by the zoophilic dermatophyte Trichophyton benhamiae. A 50% majority rule consensus maximum likelihood tree, calculated from calmodulin sequences, showed the relationships of taxa within Aspergillus sect. Usti.

“We are very proud of Dr. Jurjevic’s discoveries and the overall dedication of our microbiology department at EMSL,” said Dr. Jason Dobranic, Ph.D., Vice President of Microbiology and Life Sciences at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Dr. Jurjevic’s impressive accomplishment is a tribute to our dedicated staff that works to provide high-quality data for clients while providing breakthrough information to help the overall industry.”

The research paper, Fungal Plant description sheets: 625–715, was published in the December 2017 issue of Persoonia - Molecular Phylogeny and Evolution of Fungi. To view the full publication, please click here.

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About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical, Inc. is one of the leading testing laboratories with 40 locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP <797>, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOC’s, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations.  In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.