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A recent study from The Ohio State University College of Medicine has found that in utero exposure to two common ingredients in e-cigarette liquids—even without nicotine—can alter skull shape and lower birth weight during fetal development in mice. The findings, published in the journal PLOS One, raise new concerns about the safety of vaping products marketed as nicotine-free or “safer” alternatives.
In the study, pregnant mice were exposed to mixtures of propylene glycol and glycerol—the primary “humectants” used to create vaping aerosol and sensation—in ratios commonly found in vape products. Offspring of mothers exposed to a 30/70 mix of propylene glycol to glycerol weighed less and exhibited narrower faces and shortened skulls, when compared to control groups and those exposed to a 50/50 ratio. Notably, this altered chemical ratio was initially promoted by the vaping industry as a safer formulation.
Lead author James Cray, professor of anatomy at Ohio State, expressed surprise at the findings:
“This had no nicotine, and it’s still having effects on the development of the skull in our model, which was not anything we expected.”
Skull narrowing and shortening were consistent across several litters and seen in both sexes. Though within the normal mouse weight range, affected animals still weighed less than their peers. Cray pointed out that these craniofacial changes in mice mirror some developmental alterations sometimes observed in human infants with conditions such as cleft lip and palate, which are among the most common congenital birth defects.
Propylene glycol and glycerol are considered “carriers” in vaping liquids, helping to deliver flavors and nicotine. In recent years, some manufacturers have shifted to higher glycerol ratios, intending to reduce risks associated with propylene glycol. However, the study found adverse developmental effects even without nicotine and in mixtures believed to be safer.
The number of young adult and teen e-cigarette users remains high, with many unaware of early pregnancy risks. Cray emphasized that these findings highlight the need to closely study the effects of all e-cigarette liquids—not just those containing nicotine.
“This is a small study that speaks to the possibility that nicotine-free vaping is not safe. And it’s a sign that we probably should study the nicotine-free products as much as we study the nicotine-laden products,” said Cray.
Disclaimer:
This news article is based on preliminary animal research. While the study offers important insights into potential risks, the results observed in mice may not directly translate to humans. Further research is needed to determine the implications for human health. For medical advice or concerns about vaping and pregnancy, always consult a qualified healthcare provider.
