Explaining Breathing Problems Caused by E-cigarettes Containing Illegal Vaping Oils

Canadian researchers are demonstrating how access to world-leading neutron facilities reveals insights for health research, as highlighted recently by Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and  published by Chemical Research in Toxicology.

A research team led by Drew Maquardt from the University of Windsor used advanced neutron scattering techniques at ORNL to study the molecular mechanisms behind E-cigarette or Vaping-Associated Lung Injury (EVALI). Their work focused on understanding how vitamin E acetate interacts with lung tissue at the nanoscale. Vitamin E acetate is a diluting agent commonly used in many illegal vaping oils.

By applying neutron methods to realistic models of pulmonary surfactant—the substance that allows lungs to expand and contract efficiently—the Canadian team showed that vitamin E acetate can accumulate in lung membranes, softening them and potentially contributing to breathing difficulties observed in EVALI patients. Neutrons are uniquely suited to this research because they allow scientists to probe delicate biological structures without altering or damaging samples, offering insights that are difficult or impossible to obtain with other techniques.

This research underscores the importance of access of Canadian researchers to international neutron facilities such as ORNL. Sustained partnerships, as recommended by the Canadian Neutron Long-Range Plan, will enable continuity in Canadian research programs, show that Canada is open for science and innovation, and maximize the return on public investment in science.

Readers are encouraged to consult the original ORNL article, “Neutrons breathe new life into lung research,” for a discussion of the science, instruments, and researchers involved. https://www.ornl.gov/news/neutrons-breathe-new-life-lung-research