Study Reveals Risks of Vape Fluid on Fetal Development in Mice

A recent study conducted by researchers at The Ohio State University College of Medicine has uncovered concerning implications regarding the inhalation of vape fluid during pregnancy. Pregnant mice exposed to a primary ingredient found in many vape liquids developed offspring with smaller and narrower skulls. The findings, published in the peer-reviewed journal PLOS One on July 27, 2025, raise alarms about the potential risks associated with vaping, even in products marketed as nicotine-free.

The study, led by anatomist Dr. James Cray, aimed to assess the impact of the carrier substances in vape fluids—primarily propylene glycol and glycerin. These components serve as humectants in vape fluids, providing a base for various flavors and nicotine. In this investigation, Cray and his team prepared two formulations of vape fluid: one consisting of a 50/50 blend of propylene glycol and glycerin, and another with a 30/70 ratio favoring glycerin.

During the study, pregnant mice were subjected to controlled inhalation of the vape formulations or fresh air as a control group. This exposure occurred for one puff per minute over four hours each day, spanning five days per week throughout their approximately 20-week pregnancies. Upon birth, 21 litters comprising 140 pups were analyzed, with skull measurements taken two weeks postnatally.

Contrary to expectations, the results indicated that the 30/70 glycerin-heavy mixture led to significant cranial and facial deformities, including smaller craniums and faces, as well as shorter noses. "What we see is a consistent narrowing of all the facial features," Dr. Cray remarked, noting the resemblance to observable changes in human children.

This unsettling discovery prompts critical inquiries regarding the health implications of vaping, especially for pregnant individuals. Dr. Cray emphasized that this research highlights the necessity for further investigation into nicotine-free vaping products, as their safety remains largely unexamined.

The ethical constraints of conducting similar studies on humans necessitate reliance on animal models, which, while beneficial for understanding potential risks, do not always translate directly to human health outcomes. The lack of stringent regulation concerning vape ingredients further complicates the issue, with significant variability in product content.

The study underscores the importance of isolating the effects of individual components within vape fluids. As the vaping industry continues to evolve, understanding the health implications of its products is paramount, particularly given that vaping has been associated with some medical benefits, such as aiding smoking cessation.

In light of these findings, researchers urge the scientific community to prioritize the study of nicotine-free vaping products as diligently as those containing nicotine. This could lead to more informed decision-making for consumers and regulatory bodies alike. The research team's work, while a preliminary investigation, serves as a significant step towards unveiling the complexities surrounding vaping and its potential risks to fetal development.

The study elevates the discourse surrounding vaping, stressing the need for ongoing scrutiny and research into the long-term effects of these products on health, particularly for vulnerable populations such as pregnant individuals. As awareness grows, it becomes increasingly essential to navigate the evolving landscape of vaping regulations and health advisories, ensuring that public health remains at the forefront of this discussion.