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The finding is relevant for humans because exposure to e-cigarette vapors increases the levels of the angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2). VapingNew York: While cigarette smoke is known to increase the risk of lung disease and Covid-19 infection, a new study in mice showed similar effects from exposure to e-cigarette vapors, especially when nicotine is present in the vapor. The study by researchers, including an Indian ancestry from Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, USA, showed that mice exposed to the vapor from e-cigarettes had inflammation of lung tissue and impaired lung function, confirming the dangers of vaping . mr joy best e liquids to find online. The finding is relevant for humans because exposure to e-cigarette vapor increased the levels of angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2) – the receptor on the surface of cells with which SARS-CoV-2 can penetrate . With the spiky protein on its surface like a key, the novel coronavirus binds to the ACE2 receptor, which is located in the lining of our airways, and opens its way into our lung cells. Effect of steaming“Our results provide a rationale for studying the effect of vaping on ACE-2 levels in human lungs,” said Pawan Sharma of the university’s Center for Translational Medicine. “If a similar induction of ACE-2 is observed, it will provide further evidence that vaping is a risk factor for Covid-19 and can help us understand how to prevent and contain infection in this population,” he added added. The study was published in the Journal of Investigative Medicine The researchers kept female or male mice in a box attached to an automated system that delivered precisely controlled amounts of e-cigarette vapor, with or without nicotine, for 30 minutes twice a day for 21 days. Buy e cigarettes online possible. Compared to control mice who inhaled indoor air, mice exposed to e-cigarette vapor had increases in the ACE-2 receptor in the lungs, both male and female. Although this wasn’t tested in the current study, higher concentrations of the ACE-2 receptor could make it easier for the virus to get into the airways and make it more susceptible to infection, the researchers said. Interestingly, the presence of nicotine in the vapor further amplified the rise in ACE-2, especially in male mice. Although more research is needed to understand the complexities of risk factors for Covid-19, this finding sheds light on important physiological differences that make one gender potentially more susceptible, they added. |
Frequently asked questions
Does vaping increase the risk of COVID-19 infection?▼
According to a study from Thomas Jefferson University, exposure to e-cigarette vapor increases ACE-2 receptor levels in the lungs, which is the receptor that SARS-CoV-2 uses to enter cells. This suggests vaping may increase susceptibility to COVID-19 infection.
What is ACE-2 and why is it important for COVID-19?▼
ACE-2 is an enzyme receptor on cell surfaces that the coronavirus uses as an entry point into lung cells. Higher levels of ACE-2 receptors could make it easier for the virus to penetrate airways and cause infection.
Did the study find differences between nicotine and nicotine-free vaping?▼
Yes, the research showed that nicotine in e-cigarette vapor further amplified the rise in ACE-2 levels, especially in male mice. This suggests nicotine-containing products may pose a greater risk than nicotine-free alternatives.
How was the vaping study conducted on mice?▼
Female and male mice were exposed to controlled amounts of e-cigarette vapor with or without nicotine for 30 minutes twice daily over 21 days. Researchers then compared ACE-2 receptor levels in their lungs to control mice.
Are the study results applicable to humans?▼
While the study was conducted on mice, researchers stated the findings are relevant for humans and call for further studies to confirm similar ACE-2 induction effects in human lungs and COVID-19 risk.