Summary
Introduction:
This article is a summary of a scientific research study investigating the relationship between electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use and susceptibility to COVID-19. The study examines how e-cigarette vapor inhalation affects gene expression in the lungs and the potential impact on the immune response to SaRS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.
Key Points:
* The study used mice exposed to e-cigarette aerosols for 60 minutes daily for 1-6 months and analyzed gene expression changes in the lungs.
* The results showed extensive gene expression changes, including large reductions in Iga and CD4, indicating impairment of host responses to pathogens via reductions in immunoglobulins and CD4 T cells.
* Gene set enrichment (GSE) plots demonstrated upregulation of gene expression related to cell activation, specifically in neutrophils, suggesting that vapers may be at higher risk of developing more severe forms of COVID-19 due to increased neutrophil activation in the lungs.
* The receptor through which SaRS-CoV-2 infects host cells, aCE2, was found to have moderate upregulation in mice exposed to unflavored vape pens and further upregulation with JUUL mint aerosol exposure, indicating that specific vaping devices and components of e-liquids have an effect on aCE2 expression and potentially increase susceptibility to SaRS-CoV-2.
* Exposure to e-cigarette aerosols both with and without nicotine led to alterations in eicosanoid lipid profiles within the BaL, suggesting that chronic daily inhalation of e-cigarette aerosols fundamentally alters the inflammatory and immune state of the lungs.
* E-cigarette vapers may be at higher risk of developing infections and inflammatory disorders of the lungs.
* More research is needed to fully understand the impact of e-cigarette use on susceptibility to COVID-19 and other respiratory infections.
Main Message:
The study suggests that chronic daily inhalation of e-cigarette aerosols fundamentally alters the inflammatory and immune state of the lungs, potentially increasing susceptibility to respiratory infections and severe COVID-19. The results highlight the need for further research on the impact of e-cigarette use on respiratory health and the potential risks associated with vaping during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is important for individuals who use e-cigarettes to be aware of these potential risks and consider the potential impact on their health. Public health messaging should also emphasize the importance of avoiding e-cigarette use during the pandemic.
Citation
Masso-Silva Ja, Moshensky a, Shin J, et al. Chronic E-Cigarette aerosol Inhalation alters the Immune State of the Lungs and Increases aCE2 Expression, Raising Concern for altered Response and Susceptibility to SaRS-CoV-2. Frontiers in physiology. 2021;12:649604. doi:10.3389/fphys.2021.649604
