Comparative Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) Content among Various Flavored Disposable Vape Bars, including Cool (Iced) Flavored Bars.

Introduction:
This article presents a study on the reactive oxygen species (ROS) content in aerosols generated from various flavored disposable e-cigarettes, also known as vape bars. The study aims to compare the ROS levels generated by each vape bar as an indirect determinant of their potential to induce oxidative stress. The findings provide insight into the differential health effects of flavored vape bars and the need for their regulation.

Key Points:

* The study analyzed vape bars belonging to multiple flavor categories manufactured by various vendors and of different nicotine concentrations (0--6.8%).
* aerosols from these vape bars were generated via a single puff aerosol generator and bubbled through a fluorogenic solution to semi-quantify ROS generated by these bars in h2O2 equivalents.
* ROS concentration (μM) within aerosols produced from these vape bars varied significantly among different flavored vape bars and identically flavored vape bars with varying nicotine concentrations.
* The results suggest that flavoring chemicals and nicotine play a differential role in generating ROS production in vape bar aerosols.
* The study highlights the potential adverse health effects of cool (iced) flavored vape bars and the need for their regulation.
* The investigation was conducted by researchers from the Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center.

Main Message:
The study emphasizes the importance of considering the potential health impacts of various flavored vape bars, particularly cool (iced) flavors. The significant variations in ROS levels generated by different vape bars and the apparent differential role of flavoring chemicals and nicotine in ROS production highlight the need for careful regulation of these products. as a regulatory expert, understanding these findings can contribute to the development of evidence-based policies to protect public health.

Yogeswaran S, Muthumalage T, Rahman I. Comparative Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) Content among Various Flavored Disposable Vape Bars, including Cool (Iced) Flavored Bars. Toxics. 2021;9(10). doi:10.3390/toxics9100235