The Effects of JUUL-pod e-Cigarette Vaping Solution on Human Lung Fibroblast Cells Over a 72-Hour Period Abigail Kronau Biology 351L - Dr. Ann Zeeh Abstract Vaping and e-cigarette use have become increasingly popular and addicting activities among young people in the U.S. over the past ten years. In an attempt to help educate the public on the dangers of these products, we conducted a study to see how the chemicals in vaping solutions affected human lung fibroblast cells. Our results show that even after only 24 hours, a diluted version of the solution has detrimental effects on lung cell viability. Introduction Vaping and e-cigarettes have exponentially grown in popularity among young people in the U.S since their release to the market in 2007 (1). For many, vaping is an alternative to tobacco cigarettes but, contrary to common belief, vaping products are not necessarily any safer to inhale due to the many chemicals present in the vaping solutions (1). In fact, the vapor inhaled while using a vape pen contains many chemicals that are not found in traditional cigarette smoke (2). According to the Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics, chemical toxicants and carcinogens have been found in a number of different vape pen products and these substances can have significant health risks associated with their use (2). The vape pens often are small and easily hidden, making them perfect for middle and high school students, who constitute 72% of the JUUL market, to use and hide from parents or teachers (1). The liquid contained in these e-cigarette pods generally contains a propylene glycol or vegetable glycerin base, varying concentrations of nicotine, and several other chemicals and enticing flavorings (i.e. Bubble Gum, Virginia Tobacco, Peach) (1). These products are often advertised as flavored and nicotine-containing in order to lure in this specific group
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