Authors:

Seth Crisologo Gozo

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About Paper:

Introduction. E-cigarette use has surged dramatically, with over 2.25 million U.S. middle and high school students reporting usage in 2024 (CDC). Cases of e-cigarette or vaping-associated lung injury (EVALI) have highlighted immediate risks, however the chronic effects of vaping aerosols on lung epithelial cells remain poorly understood. This study investigates the dose- and time- dependent impacts of e-cigarette aerosol exposure on human lung epithelial cells (A549), focusing on cellular morphology, membrane integrity, and wound healing capacity. Methods. Using in vitro models, A549 cells were exposed to varying concentrations of e-cigarette aerosol over different durations. Scratch assays were used to examine wound healing related to dose and time. Cell morphology was quantified using Image J software (NIH). Index ranges from 0 to 1; a value of 1 indicates a round shape, 0 indicates an elongated morphology. Cell membrane integrity was quantitatively analyzed by measuring cytosolic levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) using CyQUANT LDH Assay (Invitrogen). Results. Scratch assays revealed retarded wound healing in a dose- and time-dependent manner, suggesting impaired regenerative capacity. Morphological analysis showed a loss of the classic cobblestone appearance of epithelial cells, quantified by a significant reduction in circularity index. Furthermore, LDH assays indicated epithelial membrane damage, with LDH release increasing proportionally to aerosol concentration and exposure time. Conclusion. The observed cellular damage adds to mounting evidence that chronic exposure to e-cigarette aerosols compromises pulmonary health. This study underscores the urgent need for further research into the molecular mechanisms driving vaping-induced lung injury. Understanding these processes, is essential to public health policies and the development of targeted interventions to mitigate the adverse effects of chronic e-cigarette use. † Presenting Undergrad Author; ‡ Contributing Undergrad Author; * Undergrad Acknowledgment Keywords: E-Cigarette; Vaping; Epithelial Cells; Wound Healing; Lung

Source:

Purdue University / 2025

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Co-authors:

Seth Crisologo Gozo