Systemic biomarkers in electronic cigarette users: implications for noninvasive assessment of vaping-associated pulmonary injuries.

Introduction:
This text summarizes a research study examining the effects of electronic cigarette (e-cig) use on various biomarkers in the body. The study compares e-cig users to non-users and measures biomarkers in plasma, urine, saliva, and exhaled breath condensate (EBC). The study aims to identify potential noninvasive biomarkers for e-cig vaping and assess the associated lung injuries.

Key Points:

* The study enrolled 48 participants, with 22 e-cig users and 26 non-users.
* E-cig users had significantly higher plasma cotinine levels, indicating nicotine exposure.
* Plasma levels of certain inflammation and endothelial dysfunction biomarkers were higher in e-cig users.
* Urine samples of e-cig users showed increased levels of oxidative stress and DNa damage biomarkers.
* Saliva samples of e-cig users had higher levels of inflammatory mediators.
* EBC samples of e-cig users had slightly increased levels of triglycerides and 8-isoprostane.
* Pro-resolving lipid mediators were significantly decreased in e-cig users.
* Growth factors were elevated in e-cig users, suggesting systemic effects of compensatory responses.

Main Message:
The study suggests that e-cig use adversely affects oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, and induces tissue remodeling. Prolonged activation of these mediators may lead to the progression of cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases. The identified mediators across various biological fluids may serve as hallmark noninvasive biomarkers for e-cig vaping. These biomarkers can be used for the assessment of e-cig vaping-associated lung injuries and for regulatory and diagnostic aspects of vaping in humans. It is crucial to consider the potential health risks associated with e-cig use and take appropriate regulatory measures to protect public health.

Singh KP, Lawyer G, Muthumalage T, et al. Systemic biomarkers in electronic cigarette users: implications for noninvasive assessment of vaping-associated pulmonary injuries. ERJ open research. 2019;5(4). doi:10.1183/23120541.00182-2019