Evaluation of the Effects of e-Cigarette Aerosol Extracts and Tobacco Cigarette Smoke Extracts on RAW264.7 Cells

Abstract

With the advancement of society, electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) have gained popularity among a growing number of individuals. While numerous toxicological studies have suggested that e-cigarettes are a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, there is also a body of literature presenting contrasting findings. This in vitro study aimed to compare the effects of e-cigarettes and tobacco cigarettes (t-cigarettes) on RAW264.7 cells by using four e-cigarette aerosol extracts (ECA) and cigarette smoking extracts (CS) containing different nicotine concentrations. The results revealed that low concentration of nicotine in CS as well as in ECA with grape, watermelon, and cola flavors could promote cell viability. Conversely, high nicotine concentration in CS and ECA with four flavors decreased cell viability. Furthermore, our study demonstrated that CS significantly reduced the phagocytic capability of RAW264.7 cells and increased the levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) compared to ECA. Overall, our findings indicate all four e-cigarettes induced less cytotoxicity to RAW264.7 cells and might be safer than t-cigarettes.

Understanding the Cardiovascular Fallout of E-cigarettes: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature

“…An independent in-vitro study in 2023 on RAW264.7 cell lines, which are considered the prototype macrophage cells for testing immunological impacts of novel chemicals, confirmed decreased phagocytic activity and increased levels of ROS upon exposure to EC vapor wherein the aerosol influx was calibrated to 10 puff/hour dose over 48 hours, simulating typical habits of an average consumer [ 61 ]. Excessively high ROS levels correlate to cell senescence, a risk factor for hypertension.…”

“…A higher probability of organ fibrosis is associated with EC aerosol exposure owing to findings of elevated key cytokines (interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and interferon-beta). Although ECs proved less toxic than TTC in this study, neither proved better than not consuming them in the first place [ 61 ]. Nicotine and its cardiovascular effects are complex.…”