Impact of E-Cigarette Use on Circadian Proteins and Cardiovascular Risk Markers

The increasing popularity of E-cigarettes among young adults has raised concerns about their health effects, particularly on the circadian system, which regulates critical physiological processes. This study examined how vaping influences circadian proteins and inflammatory markers, comparing these effects to those in cardiovascular disease patients. Blood samples from 254 participants, non-vaping controls (n = 90), regular vapers (n = 86), and cardiovascular patients (n = 78), were analyzed for circadian proteins (Melatonin, BMAL1, PER1, PER2, CRY1, CRY2) and inflammatory/oxidative stress markers (IFN-γ, MDA). Vaping significantly decreased Melatonin, PER1, PER2, CRY1, and CRY2, while BMAL1 remained unchanged. Elevated IFN-γ and MDA levels indicated increased inflammation and oxidative stress in vapers. Vaping induces circadian disruption patterns similar to cardiovascular disease, suggesting a potential mechanism linking e-cigarette use to increased cardiovascular risk.