How electronic nicotine devices affect seizure risk

Electronic nicotine device systems (ENDS)-induced alterations in glutamate homeostasis: Effects on seizure susceptibility

NIH-funded research University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-10810964

This study is looking at how using e-cigarettes, especially among young people, might make them more likely to have seizures by affecting brain chemicals, and it hopes to help us understand the health risks of vaping.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Birmingham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10810964 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the potential link between electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) and increased seizure susceptibility, particularly in young users. It aims to understand how exposure to nicotine and flavorings, such as menthol, alters glutamate homeostasis in the brain, which may lead to seizures. Using a rodent model, the study will examine the biological effects of ENDS on neuronal function and seizure activity. The findings could provide insights into the health risks associated with ENDS use.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are young individuals who use electronic nicotine devices and may be at risk for seizures.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use electronic nicotine devices or have no history of seizures are unlikely to benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of the health risks of electronic nicotine devices, potentially informing public health policies and safety regulations.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been reports of seizures associated with ENDS use, this specific investigation into glutamate homeostasis and seizure susceptibility is novel and has not been extensively studied.

Where this research is happening

Birmingham, 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.
Conditions Disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.