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The "double-edged sword effect" of nicotine
Yi Liu1, Guang Cheng1, JiXue Cao1
1China Tobacco Hubei Industrial Co., Ltd, Wuhan 430040, China.
Fitoterapia
|June 30, 2024
Summary
Nicotine exhibits a dual effect, offering benefits like nervous system protection at low doses but causing harm through oxidative stress and inflammation with prolonged high-dose exposure. Understanding this "double-edged sword" is crucial for its rational application.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neuroscience
- Toxicology
Background:
- Nicotine, a primary component of tobacco, has garnered significant research interest due to its complex physiological effects.
- Ongoing debates surround the benefits and harms of nicotine and tobacco products, necessitating a comprehensive understanding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the structure, distribution, and physiological impacts of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs).
- To elucidate the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) of nicotine.
- To comprehensively analyze the beneficial and detrimental effects of nicotine exposure.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on the physiological effects of nicotine and nAChRs.
- Analysis of studies detailing nicotine's ADME profile.
- Synthesis of research on both low-dose and high-dose nicotine exposure impacts.
Main Results:
- Low-dose, short-term nicotine exposure demonstrates positive effects on mitochondrial function, stem cell behavior, neuroprotection, and analgesia.
- High-dose, long-term nicotine exposure is linked to oxidative stress, aberrant epigenetic modifications, and heightened immune-inflammatory responses.
- Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) structure, distribution, and physiological roles were summarized.
Conclusions:
- Nicotine possesses a "double-edged sword" effect, with potential benefits and significant risks depending on dosage and duration of exposure.
- This review provides a comprehensive understanding of nicotine's physiological actions.
- Findings offer a theoretical basis for the rational use of nicotine and the development of related products.
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