Summary
Introduction:
This text provides an in-depth analysis of the chemical elements found in electronic cigarette (EC) solvents, fluids, and aerosols, and their potential health effects. It discusses the elements' sources, transfer efficiency to aerosols, and cytotoxicity, focusing on human bronchial epithelial cells (BEaS-2B) and human pulmonary fibroblasts (hPFs). The study aims to understand the potential risks associated with EC use and inform regulatory decisions.
Key Points:
1. Seven chemical elements were identified in PG, G, refill fluids, and aerosols, with selenium present in all products.
2. arsenic, aluminum, and tin were frequently found in solvent and refill fluid samples, while iron, chromium, copper, nickel, zinc, and lead were detected in fluid after EC use, indicating they came from heated atomizers.
3. Elements transferred most efficiently to aerosols made with second-/third-generation ECs, with selenium and arsenic being the most cytotoxic in the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay.
4. Selenium tetrachloride-induced oxidative stress in BEaS-2B cells, but not in hPFs, and increased superoxide in mitochondria and nucleoli, indicating nucleolar stress.
5. all fluids contained selenium above the concentration that induced oxidative stress in human bronchial epithelial cells.
6. human exposure to chemical elements in ECs could be reduced by regulating (decreasing) EC power and improving the purity of PG and G.
7. The study highlights the need for improved EC fluid quality control and regulatory measures to minimize health risks associated with EC use.
Main Message:
The text emphasizes the importance of understanding the chemical composition and potential health risks of EC solvents, fluids, and aerosols. The findings suggest that ECs expose users to potentially toxic chemical elements, with second- and third-generation products being more efficient at transferring elements to aerosols. Regulatory measures, such as limiting EC power and improving fluid purity, could help reduce human exposure to these elements and minimize health risks. The study underscores the need for continued research and regulation to ensure ECs' safety and minimize potential harm to users.
Citation
Williams M, Ventura J, Loza a, Wang Y, Talbot P. Chemical Elements in Electronic Cigarette Solvents and aerosols Inhibit Mitochondrial Reductases and Induce Oxidative Stress. Nicotine & tobacco research : official journal of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco. 2020;22:S14-S24. doi:10.1093/ntr/ntaa193
