vape additives tocopherol (an organic compound better known as vitamin E) and tocopheryl acetate can damage the lungs, according to two Concordia University researchers writing in Langmuir.
When heated and inhaled, the compound embeds pulmonary surfactant, a nanometer-thin lipid protein membrane that coats the surface of the alveoli, regulating oxygen-carbon dioxide gas exchange and stabilizing the lungs during breathing. of surface tension.
The researchers used a single-molecule-thick model membrane called a Langmuir film to simulate the expansion and compression of surfactant in the lungs. Then they added vitamin E, which has a structure similar to lipids found in membranes.
They used different observation techniques, including microscopy, X-ray diffraction and X-ray reflectivity. The researchers observed how the presence of additives changed the properties of the surfactant and monitored changes as they added more to simulate how real surfactants accumulate and retain compounds in the lungs.
“We can see that the presence of vitamin E changes the functional properties of the surfactant,” Christine DeWolf, a professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Concordia University and co-founder of the Center for Nanoscience Research, said in a statement.
“Oxygen is exchanged for carbon dioxide through pulmonary surfactant, so if the properties of the surfactant change, the exchange capacity of the gas also changes. If the surface tension changes, this affects the work of breathing. So, these changes combined, Making breathing more difficult. We believe this is the molecular basis for shortness of breath and reduced oxygen levels in people with EVALI (vape or vaping product use-associated lung injury).
This paper is the first of a larger project that looks at components of vape solutions that deliver nicotine or cannabinoids to users.
“Many of the ingredients in these solutions have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for other uses,” DeWolf said. “But the high heating rates required to vaporize these ingredients can cause further chemical reactions to occur. The ingredients that are actually inhaled may not be those in the original e-liquid.
In the face of this research result, Veehoo vape Company, as a member of the vape industry, should take active actions to ensure the quality and safety of its products. Here are a few steps they can consider:
Review additive ingredients: Veehoo should carefully review the additive ingredients used in its products, especially substances such as tocopherol and tocopheryl acetate that may cause potential harm to lung membranes. If necessary, they should consider reducing the use of such additives or finding more stable alternatives.
Strengthen quality control: Veehoo should strengthen quality control over the production process to ensure that additives and other ingredients in products comply with relevant safety standards and regulations. This includes rigorous raw material selection, production process monitoring and product testing.
Provide transparent information: Veehoo should provide consumers with transparent information about the ingredients and potential risks of its products. This way, users can make informed decisions based on their health needs.
Support further research: Veehoo can actively support independent scientific research to gain insights into the health effects of vapes and provide the public with more accurate information.
Comply with regulatory requirements: Veehoo should actively comply with relevant vape regulatory requirements and work with regulatory agencies to ensure that their products meet safety and quality standards.
Most importantly, consumers should remain vigilant when choosing to use vapes and fully understand the potential risks of the products. For those who are concerned about their health, quitting smoking or choosing other safer alternatives may be preferable options.
In summary, the Concordia University study reminds us to pay attention to the potential harm of vape additives to the lung membrane. As a well-known brand, Veehoo vapes should take responsibility for the safety of their products and take appropriate measures to protect the health of users. At the same time, the public should remain vigilant, understand the potential risks of vapes, and make wise choices.
Tags: Dangers of vape additives，Electronic cigarette ingredients，Latest research on vapes，veehoo vape
