The Untapped Biomarker Potential of MicroRNAs for Health Risk-Benefit Analysis of Vaping vs. Smoking

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Molecular Biology
• Public Health

Background:

• Electronic cigarettes (e-cigs) are increasingly popular among adolescents and adults.
• E-cig vapor contains harmful compounds, though generally at lower concentrations than tobacco smoke.
• Epigenetic changes induced by e-cig constituents may dysregulate disease-related genes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the public health impact and usage trends of e-cigs.
• To explore the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in vaping-related gene regulation and disease.
• To identify research gaps and priorities for e-cig regulation.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of e-cig use, health impacts, and miRNA research.
• Analysis of published and ongoing studies on miRNAs in e-cig users and in vitro models.
• Synthesis of evidence on epigenetic mechanisms and disease pathogenesis.

Main Results:

• E-cig vapor constituents can induce epigenetic modifications.
• MiRNAs are crucial regulators of gene expression implicated in smoking-related diseases.
• Limited research exists on miRNAs' role in vaping-induced pathogenesis.

Conclusions:

• Vaping poses potential long-term health risks due to epigenetic alterations.
• MiRNA research is a promising avenue for understanding vaping's disease-causing potential.
• Empirical evidence is crucial for effective regulation of e-cigs to protect public health, especially youth.