Effects of electronic cigarettes on oxidative stress markers in the rat kidney tissues

INTRODUCTION: Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are an alternative to traditional cigarettes. Although numerous studies have been conducted regarding the effects of traditional cigarettes on oxidative stress biomarkers in the kidney, there are only a few studies on the effects of e-cigarettes.
METHODS: A total of 24 male Wistar albino rats were separated into three groups: Group 1 was treated with traditional cigarettes, Group 2 with e cigarettes, and Group 3 formed the control group. Kidney homogenates and plasma samples were obtained, and the glutathione peroxidase, protein carbonyl, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), lipid hydroperoxide (LPO), and symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) levels were examined.
RESULTS: Higher plasma SDMA levels were determined in Group 1 and Group 2 compared with Group 3 (<0.0001). Higher SOD activity was found in Group 1 compared with Group 2 (p=0.0094). Lower CAT activity was found in Group 1 compared with both Group 2 (p=0.0035) and Group 3 (p<0.0001). Higher LPO levels were determined in the traditional cigarette smoking group compared with the control group (p=0.028), and no statistically significant difference was found between the e-cigarette and the control groups.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: E-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes are associated with the dysregulation of particular oxidative stress markers in the kidney. However, e-cigarettes have less effect on some oxidative stress markers than traditional cigarettes. Long-term use of traditional cigarettes and e cigarettes causes oxidative stress, which may lead to renal tissue damage and diminished kidney function.