Summary
Introduction:
This text provides a summary of a scientific study comparing the cardiac effects of electronic cigarette (ECIG) aerosol exposure to those of combustible tobacco cigarettes (T-Cigs) and waterpipe (WP) smoke exposure in rats. The study aimed to examine and compare the impact of ECIG aerosol exposure with that of T-Cig and WP smoke exposure on cardiac health.
Key Points:
* The study exposed rats to ECIG aerosol, T-Cig smoke, WP smoke, or fresh air for one hour daily, six days a week for four weeks.
* The study measured cardiac biomarkers of inflammation, oxidative stress, and remodeling.
* The study found that all exposed groups had a significant increase in heart to body weight ratio compared to the control group.
* Both ECIG and T-Cig groups had increased cardiac endothelin-1 and myeloperoxidase levels, while WP had only increased endothelin-1 levels.
* all exposed groups had increased cardiac nitrite and TBaRS levels, while ECIG and T-Cig groups had increased superoxide dismutase activity.
* ECIG and T-Cig groups had increased glutathione levels, while WP had no changes in glutathione levels.
* all exposed groups had increased transforming growth factor-beta and matrix metalloproteinase-2 levels, indicating cardiac remodeling.
* all exposed groups had increased myocardial fibrosis.
Main Message:
The study suggests that ECIG aerosol exposure may promote cardiac alterations in a similar manner to tobacco smoke by promoting myocardial oxidative stress and inflammation leading to fibrosis. Therefore, with regard to cardiac health, exposure to ECIG aerosol and combustible T-Cig smoke may lead to similar adverse outcomes. It is important for regulators to consider the potential cardiac risks associated with ECIG use and take appropriate actions to protect public health.
Citation
Mayyas F, aldawod h, alzoubi Kh, Khabour O, Shihadeh a, Eissenberg T. Comparison of the cardiac effects of electronic cigarette aerosol exposure with waterpipe and combustible cigarette smoke exposure in rats. Life sciences. 2020;251:117644. doi:10.1016/j.lfs.2020.117644
