Vaping alters 3,124 genes and new study shows which flavour is 'worst'
Summary
A new study published in Frontiers in Oncology reveals that vaping alters the activity of 3,124 genes in regular users compared to non-smokers. The research indicates that two-thirds of these changes are linked to the type of flavours and devices used, rather than just the frequency of use. Among vapers, those who used fruit flavours or multiple flavours, as well as advanced refillable devices known as 'mods', showed the most significant changes in gene expression. The study highlights that sweet flavours affect 2.9% of genes, mint or menthol 0.9%, fruit 31%, and multiple flavours 64.3%. Higher-generation devices like mods were also associated with stronger changes in gene regulation. The findings suggest that the chemical makeup of vaping products and device design play a major role in their biological effects. The researchers recommend that regulators evaluate products more granularly, paying close attention to flavours and device characteristics, as mods can deliver higher nicotine levels and contain potentially toxic additives. The study also links vaping to molecular changes associated with cancer, endocrine disorders, gastrointestinal diseases, and neurological diseases.
(Source:Essexlive)