The research involved sub-cytotoxic exposure to cells in a 3D human bronchial model (MucilAirTM) to nicotine-containing vape aerosol, combustible cigarette smoke and fresh air control under strict laboratory conditions. [...] "Within this model, exposure to combustible cigarette smoke triggered significant changes in gene expression, indicating - amongst other effects - changes in oxidative stress and inflammation markers," confirmed Matt Stevenson, Pre-Clinical Toxicology Manager at Imperial Brands. "Conversely, the vape aerosol generated only a minimal response, similar to that observed in the air control."