MRI and Biological Markers of Acute E-Cigarette Exposure in Smokers and Vapers

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · Mar 8, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how using electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and traditional tobacco cigarettes affects blood flow and inflammation in the body. Researchers want to see what happens to smokers and vapers when they are exposed to e-cigarettes with or without nicotine, compared to non-smokers. Participants will undergo three different exposure sessions, where they will have MRI scans (a type of imaging that looks at blood flow) and blood tests done before and after using the products. The information gathered will help understand the impact of these substances on health.

To participate, individuals aged 18 to 45 who have been regular users of e-cigarettes or tobacco for at least six months may be eligible. However, those with certain health conditions such as cancer, serious heart or lung diseases, or those taking specific medications may not qualify. Participants can expect to visit the research site for multiple sessions to complete the MRI scans and blood draws. It’s important for potential participants to know that their health and safety are a top priority, and anyone interested should discuss their eligibility with the study team.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility 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.)