In utero exposure to electronic cigarette carriers alters craniofacial morphology
Overview
Paper Summary
This study on mice found that in utero exposure to e-cigarette aerosol containing propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG) alters craniofacial development in their pups. The 30/70 PG/VG mixture caused a greater reduction in facial and cranial growth compared to the 50/50 PG/VG mixture and controls, contrary to the initial hypothesis. Postnatal weight was also reduced in the 30/70 PG/VG group, though still within normal range for this mouse model.
Explain Like I'm Five
Pregnant mice exposed to e-cigarette vapor had pups with smaller heads and faces, especially when the vapor had more of the ingredient VG. This suggests that even nicotine-free vaping might not be safe during pregnancy.
Possible Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare that no competing interests exist, but the funding sources (university, medical center, and research programs) have reputational interests in research related to e-cigarette safety.
Identified Limitations
Rating Explanation
This study used mice, so directly extrapolating the effects to humans is problematic. While growth differences were statistically significant, their biological significance and clinical relevance are unclear. There's also a possibility of fetal resorption and a lack of longer-term follow-up to see the persistence of these developmental changes.
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