Retinal tissue develops an inflammatory reaction to tobacco smoke and electronic cigarette vapor in mice.

Introduction:
This text is a summary of a scientific study investigating the effects of cigarette smoke and electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) vapor on the retina. The study uses a mouse model and performs molecular investigations to determine the impact of smoking and vaping on the retina. The study also examines the effect of e-cigarette vapor on the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and choroid and analyzes changes in inflammatory and angiogenic mediators in the retina/RPE/choroid. The objective of the study is to evaluate a potential relationship between e-cigarette vapor exposure and the induction of inflammatory angiogenic effects in mice, which might be related to the onset of wet age-related macular degeneration (aMD) in humans.

Key Points:

* The study used a mouse model and exposed mice to cigarette smoke or e-cigarette vapor.
* The study analyzed the effect of cigarette smoke and e-cigarette vapor on the retina, RPE, and choroid.
* The study measured inflammatory and angiogenic mediators in the retina/RPE/choroid.
* The study found that cigarette smoke exposure promoted an inflammatory reaction in the retina.
* E-cigarette (nicotine-free) vapor caused inflammatory and angiogenic reactions more pronounced in RPE and choroid compared to retinal tissue.
* Nicotine-containing e-cigarette vapor caused even more severe reactions.
* Both inflammatory and pro-angiogenic reactions increased with the extension of e-cigarette vapor exposure time.

Main Message:
The study provides evidence that e-cigarette vapor, with or without nicotine, can increase the occurrence and progression of inflammatory and angiogenic stimuli in the retina. These effects may be related to the onset of wet aMD in humans. The study suggests that e-cigarette vapor may not be a safer alternative to cigarette smoke and may have detrimental effects on the retina. Therefore, it is essential to consider the potential risks associated with e-cigarette use, especially in individuals with pre-existing eye conditions.

Wang F, hadzic S, Roxlau ET, et al. Retinal tissue develops an inflammatory reaction to tobacco smoke and electronic cigarette vapor in mice. Journal of molecular medicine (Berlin, Germany). 2021;99(10):1459-1469. doi:10.1007/s00109-021-02108-9