Effects of E-Cigs on Physiological Pathways and Proposed Therapeutic Intervention with Bixin

Electronic cigarettes (e-cigs) have increased in popularity and usage over the last few decades. There is rising concern regarding the long-term effects of e-cigs on human health, considering their relatively recent introduction to the market. E-cigs are generally composed of a liquid containing nicotine and various chemicals, a battery, a vaporization chamber, and a coil that serves to heat the liquid upon inhalation of the mouthpiece. While e-cigs were initially introduced as a healthy alternative to cigarette smoking, recent research has demonstrated the cytotoxic effects of nicotinic e-cig devices on multiple cell types, including epithelial and endothelial cells, along with causing dysregulation of inflammatory pathways. This review will discuss the harmful effects of e-cigs on the human body, highlighting the physiological impact of e-cigs on pulmonary, cardiovascular, and cerebrovascular health. Moreover, this review will highlight the potential therapeutic effects of bixin, an apocarotenoid found in the seeds of Bixa orellana, also known as the achiote tree, due to its innate anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer activities that have been demonstrated in recent research. Nanotechnology has surfaced in the past few decades as a powerful tool for medicinal practice. Specifically, nanoparticles serve as a potential method for treating various conditions and diseases. Bixin nanoparticles show promise as a viable method for treating e-cig-induced damage due to the innate properties of bixin and the advantages of using nanoparticles compared to conventional medicinal interventions.