Examining the effects of e-cigarette exposure on blood vessels and inflammation
MRI and Biological Markers of Acute E-Cigarette Exposure in Smokers and Vapers
This study is testing how using e-cigarettes and tobacco cigarettes affects blood vessel health and inflammation in smokers and vapers.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 45 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Pennsylvania Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) |
| Trial ID | NCT05271578 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates how acute exposure to electronic cigarettes and tobacco cigarettes affects vascular reactivity and inflammatory biomarkers in smokers and vapers. Participants will undergo three separate exposure episodes, using either a nicotine-containing electronic cigarette, a nicotine-free electronic cigarette, or a tobacco cigarette, with MRI exams and blood draws conducted before and after each exposure. The results will be compared to baseline values from a control group of non-smokers and non-vapers. The goal is to understand the transient effects of these substances on vascular health.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy adults aged 21 to 45 who are current users of electronic or tobacco cigarettes.
Not a fit: Patients with serious health conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, or mental illness may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into the cardiovascular risks associated with e-cigarette and tobacco use, potentially guiding public health recommendations.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown acute effects of nicotine-free e-cigarette aerosol on vascular function, suggesting this approach may yield valuable insights.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * BMI: 18.5 to 30 * Current users of electronic cigarettes or tobacco cigarettes with a use history of six months or greater. Exclusion Criteria: * Cancer * HIV * Mental illness in which the participant is not of proper cognizance * Overt cardio- or neurovascular disease (prior heart attack, stroke, transient ischemic attacks) * Serious arrhythmias * Bronchospastic disease * Upper respiratory tract infection within the past six weeks * Medication affecting vascular function * Antibiotics * Magnetic resonance imaging contraindications (metallic implants/intraocular foreign bodies, claustrophobia, cardiac/cochlear implantable electronic devices, etc.)
Where this trial is running
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Felix W Wehrli, PhD — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Madhi Hurreh
- Email: mahdi.hurreh@pennmedicine.upenn.edu
- Phone: 215-349-8519
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.