Exploring the potential neurotoxicity of vaping vitamin E or vitamin E acetate

Abstract

Serious adverse health effects have been reported with the use of vaping products, including neurologic disorders and e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury (EVALI). Vitamin E acetate, likely added as a diluent to cannabis-containing products, was linked to EVALI. Literature searches were performed on vitamin E and vitamin E acetate-associated neurotoxicity. Blood brain barrier (BBB) penetration potential of vitamin E and vitamin E acetate were evaluated using cheminformatic techniques. Review of the literature showed that the neurotoxic potential of inhalation exposures to these compounds in humans is unknown. Physico-chemical properties demonstrate these compounds are lipophilic, and molecular weights indicate vitamin E and vitamin E acetate have the potential for BBB permeability. Computational models also predict both compounds may cross the BBB via passive diffusion. Based on literature search, no experimental nonclinical studies and clinical information on the neurotoxic potential of vitamin E via inhalation. Neurotoxic effects from pyrolysis by-product, phenyl acetate, structurally analogous to vitamin E acetate, suggests vitamin E acetate has potential for central nervous system (CNS) impairment. Cheminformatic model predictions provide a theoretical basis for potential CNS permeability of these inhaled dietary ingredients suggesting prioritization to evaluate for potential hazard to the CNS.