The flavoring liquid for electronic cigarettes, or e-cigarettes, may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease when inhaled, according to a study led by researchers at the School of Medicine.
The scientists investigated the effect of the e-liquids on cells called endothelial cells that line the interior of blood vessels. They found that, when grown in a laboratory, endothelial cells exposed to the e-liquids — or to blood collected from e-cigarette users shortly after vaping — are less viable and exhibit significantly increased levels of molecules implicated in DNA damage and cell death. The cells are also less able to form new vascular tubes and to migrate and participate in wound healing.
The severity of the damage, aspects of which occur even in the absence of nicotine, varies among popular flavors, the researchers said. Cinnamon and menthol were found to be particularly harmful.
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