How electronic cigarettes may cause lung cancer through free radicals and inflammation

Electronic cigarette derived free radicals, oxidative stress and inflammation in lung cancer development

NIH-funded research Ohio State University · NIH-11019698

This study looks at how using e-cigarettes might harm your lungs and potentially lead to lung cancer, by testing on mice to see how the chemicals in e-cigarette vapor can cause lung problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOhio State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11019698 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the harmful effects of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) on lung health, particularly their role in causing inflammation and oxidative stress that could lead to lung cancer. Using a chronic mouse model, the study examines how exposure to e-cigarette aerosol, which contains toxic substances like free radicals and acetaldehydes, can induce lung tumors. The research employs advanced imaging techniques and histopathological analysis to understand the mechanisms of cancer development associated with e-cigarette use.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who use e-cigarettes and are concerned about their lung health or cancer risk.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use e-cigarettes or have pre-existing lung cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide critical insights into the cancer risks associated with e-cigarette use, potentially leading to better prevention strategies and public health policies.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on e-cigarettes is relatively novel, previous research has established a strong link between tobacco smoking, oxidative stress, and cancer, suggesting that similar mechanisms may be at play with e-cigarette use.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.