Understanding Your MoldCo Advanced Panel

What Is the MoldCo Advanced Panel?

If you've ordered the MoldCo Advanced Panel, you're taking an important step toward understanding your health. This comprehensive panel examines multiple biomarkers that can help identify how mold exposure may be affecting your body systems.

Many patients who benefit from this testing have been experiencing chronic symptoms such as brain fog, fatigue, poor memory, hair loss, mood swings, unexplained weight changes, and other mysterious ailments that have previously gone undiagnosed. Our team understands the immense physical, mental, and emotional toll these symptoms can take, and we want to assure you that you're not alone.

The MoldCo Advanced Panel includes 12 lab tests, with the option to add HLA-DR/DQ genetic testing for additional insights into mold susceptibility. These blood measurements are strongly associated with how the body changes when affected by mold toxicity, particularly:

• Increased inflammation due to an activated immune system (like an overheating engine)
• Depletion of hormones vital to keeping the body balanced and healthy
• Disruption of normal cellular and metabolic processes

Why Are Biomarkers Important?

Biomarkers are measurable indicators found in your blood that reflect what's happening inside your body. The damaging effects of mold and biotoxins are reflected by the blood concentrations of specific hormones and cell signaling factors. When these signals are abnormally high or low, they provide valuable information about inflammation levels, immune function, and hormone balance.

Research in the field of mold and biotoxin illness, plus over 30 years of clinical practice, has revealed the biomarkers that best signal the presence of mold toxicity. This testing helps create a clear picture of your current health status and guides the development of your personalized treatment plan.

Mold Toxicity Biomarkers

The damaging effects of mold and biotoxins are reflected by the blood concentrations of specific hormones and cell signaling factors. Depending on the test, the portion of the blood analyzed is either the plasma or serum.

If these signals are abnormally high or low, further investigation may be advised, in which case we strongly recommend that you consult your healthcare providers.

Research in the field of mold and biotoxin illness, plus over 30 years of clinical practice, has revealed the biomarkers that best signal the presence of Mold Toxicity, as we understand the illness today.

Key Biomarkers in the MoldCo Advanced Panel

Immune System and Inflammation Markers

C4a (Complement protein C4a)

The immune response is divided into two interconnected systems: the innate immune system and the adaptive immune system. The innate immune system serves as the body's first line of defense, responding quickly to detect and neutralize foreign invaders ("pathogens") and particles as they first enter the body. Within the innate system, the "complement pathway" deploys specific defense tactics, such as working to tag pathogens for destruction, enhancing blood flow to the site of invasion (causing inflammation), poking holes into the invading cells causing their collapse, and clearing away dead cells and debris.
A key component of the complement system is factor C4a, which is released into the bloodstream and acts as a signaling molecule that attracts immune cells. This process increases inflammation. Elevated C4a levels therefore accompany inflammation-based symptoms seen in Mold Toxicity, such as fatigue and brain fog.

Think of C4a as a fire alarm, alerting the immune system to a perceived threat. This alarm calls for a rapid deployment of emergency vehicles (immune cells) to address the problem. However, in Mold Toxicity, this alarm remains persistently active because the alarm can't be shut off, leading to chronic inflammation.

Normal Range: Less than 650 ng/mL 

Abnormal Range: Greater than 650 ng/mL

Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9)

MMP-9 functions much like a demolition crew in a city, breaking down the old or damaged structures so that new, healthy tissue can be rebuilt. Under normal conditions, MMP-9 is kept in balance, ensuring that tissue remodeling occurs at a controlled pace and contributes positively to processes such as wound healing, inflammation resolution, and tissue repair.

When the body experiences inflammation, MMP-9 levels naturally rise to help clear away damaged components and make room for new growth. However, if MMP-9 remains elevated for too long, this prolonged activity can turn from a beneficial repair process into a source of ongoing damage. Excess MMP-9 can contribute to chronic inflammation and tissue degradation, and has been linked to conditions like heart disease and arthritis, making it a significant marker for inflammation.

In the context of Mold Toxicity, elevated MMP-9 levels often signal that the body is under persistent stress from mold toxins. In response to the damage caused by these toxins, the body ramps up MMP-9 production in an attempt to repair affected tissues. However, this increased enzyme activity can backfire, contributing to symptoms like fatigue, breathing difficulties, and brain fog, while also impairing proper immune function.

Normal Range: 85-332 ng/mL 

Low: Less than 85 ng/mL 

High: Greater than 333 ng/mL 

Very High: Greater than 900 ng/mL

Transforming Growth Factor Beta 1 (TGF-β1)

TGF-β1 is a protein that acts as a master regulator in the body, orchestrating cell growth, immune function, and tissue repair. Under normal circumstances, TGF-β1 remains inactive until it's needed to reduce inflammation and promote healing. It plays a crucial role in maintaining immune balance by calming the immune system, ensuring that it doesn't mistakenly attack healthy cells, and by stimulating production of important proteins needed for wound healing. However, like a construction crew that can either rebuild or overbuild, too much TGF-β1 activity can lead to excessive scarring in organs, which may cause long-term health problems.

In the context of Mold Toxicity, the balance of TGF-β1 can be disrupted, with levels becoming either too high or too low. When TGF-β1 is elevated, it can trigger excessive tissue remodeling, potentially leading to fibrosis in the lungs and resulting in breathing difficulties. Conversely, an imbalance might suppress the immune system excessively, reducing its ability to fight infections and recover from illness.

Normal Range: 2537-22,306 pg/mL

Low: Less than 2537 pg/mL 

High: Greater than 5000 pg/mL 

Very High: Greater than 22,306 pg/mL

Hormone and Energy Regulation Markers

Melanocyte Stimulating Hormone (MSH)

MSH is a multifaceted hormone that plays key roles in skin pigmentation, appetite regulation, and immune function. The most well-known form, α-MSH, is responsible for stimulating melanin production in the skin, which not only influences skin color but also provides protection against UV damage. In addition to its role in pigmentation, α-MSH helps regulate appetite by signaling the brain to reduce hunger, thus aiding in body weight and metabolism control. Moreover, this hormone exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, effectively calming the immune system and reducing inflammation throughout the body.

During Mold Toxicity, however, the levels of MSH may become imbalanced due to chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation. This disruption can lead to a range of issues including persistent inflammation, metabolic disturbances, and even noticeable changes in skin pigmentation, such as unexplained darkening or lightening. Because of its critical roles, doctors may check MSH levels in patients suffering from mold-related illness to gain insights into how mold exposure is impacting their overall health. 

Normal Range: 35-81 pg/mL 

Low: Less than 35 pg/mL 

High: Greater than 81 pg/mL

Leptin

Leptin is a hormone primarily produced by fat tissue that acts as the body's energy regulator, communicating energy reserves to the brain and maintaining balance in appetite, metabolism, and energy usage. This signaling hormone serves as the body's "fuel gauge," ensuring energy intake matches long-term storage and expenditure needs. When energy stores are sufficient, leptin informs the brain to suppress hunger, stabilize metabolism, and focus resources on maintenance and repair rather than fat accumulation.

In Mold Toxicity, leptin levels can be elevated. Mold exposure often triggers leptin resistance, where the body's cells stop responding to leptin's signals effectively. This resistance causes the brain to misinterpret the body's energy state, perceiving starvation even when fat stores are abundant. As a result, appetite increases thus leading to food intake, fat storage ramps up, and weight gain becomes common. Elevated leptin levels are also associated with inflammation, making it a marker of the chronic inflammatory state seen in mold-related toxicities.

Think of leptin as a thermostat that regulates the body's energy environment. In Mold Toxicity, the system is broken—despite the room being warm, the thermostat continues to signal for more heat. This overdrive not only disrupts energy balance but also allows mold toxins to accumulate in fat stores, prolonging the impact of exposure. Over time, these disruptions contribute to metabolic dysfunction, hormonal imbalance, and widespread symptoms such as fatigue and brain fog. Addressing leptin dysfunction is crucial for restoring the body's energy balance and breaking the cycle of chronic inflammation.

Normal Range for Men: 0.5-13.8 ng/mL 

Normal Range for Women: 1.1-27.7 ng/mL 

Low (Men): Less than 0.5 ng/mL 

Low (Women): Less than 1.1 ng/mL 

High (Men): Greater than 13.8 ng/mL 

High (Women): Greater than 27.7 ng/mL

Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEA-S)

DHEA-S is one of the most abundant hormones found in the human body. It serves as a vital precursor during the production of sex hormones, testosterone and estradiol. Beyond its role in hormone synthesis, DHEA supports various processes, including immune modulation, metabolism, cardiovascular health, neurological function, and reproductive health.

In the context of mold toxicity, the concentration of DHEA-S is significantly reduced. This decline is frequently paired with an imbalance between cortisol and DHEA, where cortisol levels remain stable or elevated while DHEA levels drop. This imbalance exacerbates inflammation and disrupts the body's ability to regulate stress and immune responses effectively.

Think of DHEA as a peacekeeper, working to balance the body's inflammatory responses and maintain overall equilibrium. When DHEA levels drop, it allows immune system proteins to drive unchecked inflammation. This contributes to the persistent immune activation seen in mold toxicity, impairing the body's ability to combat mold-related infections and other stressors.

Normal Range (Ages 20 to 50): 31-701 µg/dL 

Normal Range (Ages 50+): 21-402 µg/dL 

Low (Ages 20 to 50): Less than 31 µg/dL 

Low (Ages 50+): Less than 21 µg/dL 

High (Ages 20 to 50): Greater than 701 µg/dL 

High (Ages 50+): Greater than 402 µg/dL

Vascular and Nutrient Support Markers

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF)

VEGF is an essential protein for the formation of new blood vessels. Its primary functions include stimulating cell growth and migration, and acting as a dilator of blood vessels to improve blood flow. These functions make VEGF critical for delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues, particularly during periods of growth or healing.

During Mold Toxicity, VEGF levels become disrupted. Inflammation and elevated immune response suppress VEGF production, leading to inadequate oxygen supply to tissues, muscle cramping, and post-exertional fatigue. Capillary hypoperfusion leads to the secretion of Hypoxia inducible factor (HIF-1) which causes an initial increase and eventual depression of VEGF.

Think of VEGF as the body's "road crew," maintaining and building new pathways for blood flow to reach areas in need. VEGF also interacts with the immune system. While VEGF itself is not inherently inflammatory, its increased production in chronic inflammatory conditions can exacerbate symptoms by enhancing blood supply to already inflamed areas, amplifying the immune response.

Normal Range: 31-86 pg/mL 

Low: Less than 31 pg/mL 

High: Greater than 86 pg/mL

Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that plays multiple roles in maintaining overall health, particularly by keeping bones strong, supporting immune function, and regulating inflammation. The body naturally produces Vitamin D when the skin is exposed to sunlight, and it can also be absorbed from certain foods. Being fat-soluble, Vitamin D is stored in the body and released as needed, ensuring a steady supply for various bodily functions.

Think of Vitamin D as the maintenance crew for your body's infrastructure. It not only helps build and repair bones but also keeps the immune system running smoothly. This nutrient is especially crucial for immune function; it enhances the body's ability to fight off infections and may lower the risk of autoimmune diseases, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells. By modulating specific immune signals, Vitamin D helps control inflammation, a process that, when left unchecked, can lead to chronic pain and fatigue.

In individuals dealing with conditions like Mold Toxicity, the immune system is often in a state of prolonged activation due to the persistent presence of mold toxins, leading to ongoing inflammation. This sustained immune response can manifest as symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, and muscle pain. When Vitamin D levels become unbalanced in this context, it's akin to the maintenance crew not having enough resources to keep up with the continuous repairs needed after a storm. Low levels of Vitamin D may further hinder the body's ability to regulate its inflammatory response, making recovery from these inflammatory episodes more difficult and exacerbating the overall impact of mold-related illness.

Normal Range: 35-100 ng/mL 

Low: Less than 35 ng/mL 

High: Greater than 100 ng/mL

Zinc, Serum or Plasma

Zinc is an essential mineral that supports more than 300 biological processes in the body, playing a critical role in functions ranging from immune support and wound healing to protein synthesis and DNA production. It helps the immune system function by supporting the activity of immune cells, which serve as the body's defense against infections. Additionally, zinc promotes the production of key factors that aid in tissue repair and wound healing, and acts as an antioxidant that protects cells from damage caused by agents that result in inflammation.

During Mold Toxicity, the body's zinc levels can become imbalanced. Imagine a well-run construction site where zinc is the indispensable maintenance crew; when the crew is understaffed because of reduced zinc levels, repairs slow down, and damage accumulates. In this scenario, low zinc levels can weaken the immune response, hinder the healing of tissues, and impair the body's ability to control inflammation. This disruption contributes to symptoms such as fatigue, cognitive difficulties, and delayed wound healing, leaving the body less equipped to recover from the persistent challenges imposed by mold toxicity.

Normal Range: 44-115 µg/dL 

Low: Less than 44 µg/dL 

High: Greater than 115 µg/dL

Gut and Immune Interaction Markers

Antigliadin Antibodies (IgA and IgG)

Antigliadin antibodies (IgA and IgG) are proteins produced by the immune system in response to gliadin, a component of gluten found in wheat and similar grains. These antibodies are commonly tested when evaluating for gluten-related conditions. Essentially, the immune system creates these antibodies as a way to mark and target what it perceives as harmful invaders (in this case, gliadin).

In the context of Mold Toxicity, the immune system can become overactive. Most patients with Mold Toxicity also develop low levels of MSH, an immune hormone that protects the gut lining. Imagine the immune system as a security system that becomes overly vigilant due to constant false alarms. This hyperactive state with low MSH can disrupt the gut barrier, sometimes resulting in a condition known as leaky gut. When the gut barrier is compromised, gluten proteins are more likely to leak from the intestinal cavity into the bloodstream, prompting an immune response that increases antigliadin antibodies. This immune reaction can lead to symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, and fatigue, which closely mirror those experienced in gluten sensitivity.

Some research even suggests that mold toxins might mimic gluten, potentially triggering higher levels of antigliadin antibodies even in individuals who do not consume gluten. Testing for these antibodies can help doctors determine whether a person's symptoms are related to gluten, mold exposure, or a combination of both.

Normal Range (IgG): Less than 15 Units 

Abnormal (IgG): Greater than 16 Units 

Normal Range (IgA): Less than 12 Units 

Abnormal (IgA): Greater than 13 Units

Ferritin

Ferritin is a protein that acts as a secure storage unit for iron in the body, ensuring that iron levels remain balanced and available when needed. It is present in many tissues where it safely stores iron to support crucial functions while also preventing excess iron from causing cellular damage. Think of ferritin as a well-organized warehouse that not only keeps a stockpile of essential supplies but also safeguards against the potential hazards of having too much on hand.

Ferritin levels are used to evaluate the body's iron reserves. In cases of Mold Toxicity, chronic inflammation can cause ferritin levels to either rise or fall. While some patients with mold toxicity show low ferritin levels, others may experience elevated levels due to the inflammatory response. Low ferritin may indicate iron deficiency, which can lead to symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and anemia due to insufficient iron available for vital processes.

On the other hand, high ferritin levels can signal either an overload of iron or, more commonly, the presence of inflammation. When the body is exposed to mold toxins, it responds by increasing ferritin production to limit the availability of iron, effectively trying to starve potential pathogens. However, this protective response can also contribute to symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, and other inflammatory issues typical of Mold Toxicity. In some situations, this disruption in iron metabolism may lead to a condition where ferritin is high, yet the body cannot properly utilize the stored iron.

Normal Range (Adult Females): 15-150 ng/mL 

Normal Range (Adult Males): 30-400 ng/mL 

Abnormal (Adult Females): Greater than 150 ng/mL 

Abnormal (Adult Males): Greater than 401 ng/mL

Optional Add-On: Human Leukocyte Antigen DR and DQ (HLA-DR/DQ)

Your Advanced Panel includes the option to add HLA-DR/DQ testing, which provides valuable insights into your genetic susceptibility to mold toxicity.

HLA-DR and HLA-DQ are proteins of the immune system that help your body recognize harmful substances and respond appropriately. These proteins play a key role in identifying foreign invaders and presenting them as "flags" so that your immune system can launch a targeted response.

Genetic variations in the HLA-DR and HLA-DQ genes introduce differences in how effectively these proteins can bind and present antigens. Some individuals may inherit alleles, here and in other genes, that make it harder for their bodies to capture and clear toxins efficiently. When mold toxins and other mold substances detected by the immune system as foreign are not cleared properly, they can persist in the body, leading to a state of chronic immune activation. This prolonged activation is a key feature which manifests through symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, and difficulty focusing.
Think of these proteins, and other chemical systems, as your body's cleaning crew, clearing away harmful substances. When the cleanup crew doesn't work properly, toxins build up, and the immune system becomes overactive, leading to chronic inflammation. Testing for specific genetic variations in HLA-DR and HLA-DQ can help identify individuals who are more susceptible to mold-related illnesses. Understanding your HLA profile can be particularly useful in explaining why some people experience persistent symptoms after toxin exposure while others do not

Your HLA report is included in this test as an optional add-on that provides valuable information about your genetic predisposition to mold sensitivity.

How These Biomarkers Work Together

Understanding how these biomarkers interact provides valuable insights into Mold Toxicity:

• Immune System Activation: Elevated C4a, MMP-9, and TGF-β1 indicate an activated immune system responding to mold toxins.
• Hormonal Disruption: Decreased MSH, altered leptin levels, and reduced DHEA-S show how mold exposure affects the body's hormonal balance.
• Nutritional Impacts: Changes in Vitamin D and zinc levels reflect how inflammation affects nutrient utilization and absorption.
• Circulatory Effects: Disrupted VEGF levels can explain symptoms like fatigue, cognitive issues, and exercise intolerance.
• Gut Barrier Function: Increased antigliadin antibodies (even without celiac disease) and abnormal ferritin highlight how mold exposure can affect gut integrity and iron metabolism.

What to Expect After Testing

After your testing is complete:

1. Results timeframe: Results are typically available within 3-7 business days.
2. Provider review: Your MoldCo provider will evaluate your results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
3. Follow-up appointment: A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to discuss your results and potential treatment options.
4. Treatment plan development: Your provider will use these results to develop or refine your personalized treatment plan.
5. Ongoing monitoring: Periodic retesting may be recommended to track your progress during treatment.

Disclaimers:

The results of this lab panel do not include clinician oversight, and should not be used to make a diagnosis or health claim without consulting your licensed healthcare providers. The information and guidance provided herein is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any health-related claims made on or in this package, or on MoldCo’s website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). MoldCo assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of the references nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon. The biological analytes and clinical symptoms discussed on this page are not specific to any disease or other medical entity, including Mold Toxicity. The purpose of this panel is to obtain measurements of blood biomarkers associated with Mold Toxicity or CIRS, as described in the medical and scientific literature, and which reflect clinical practice by certain mold-certified clinicians1,2. 

MoldCo is a healthcare technology company and not a laboratory or medical provider. All laboratory and medical services are provided by independent third parties. These laboratory and medical service providers set their own pricing. Although MoldCo may facilitate easy access to certain laboratory and medical service providers on your behalf, MoldCo does not recommend or refer you to any healthcare providers, and you are free to choose any healthcare provider and to continue to use MoldCo’s services. MoldCo does not offer medical advice, laboratory services, a diagnosis, or any form of medical opinion, through our services or otherwise. MoldCo’s pricing includes technology and service fees charged by MoldCo, as well as access to limited prepaid laboratory and other services provided by third parties, and paid to such third parties on your behalf. Itemization of all fees is available upon request. For other important information regarding the services provided by MoldCo, please see the terms of service.

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