Biochemical effects of some phytochemicals on nicotine induced toxicity

This study explains the major toxic effect of nicotine on various tissues and organs especially brain, heart, and lung tissues. In developed countries, cigarette smoking is the leading cause of mortality. Nicotine, on the other hand, is the most psychoactive component in tobacco smoke and the component most linked to tobacco addiction due to nicotine's activities on neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). Nicotine is the most abundant carcinogen in cigarette smoke and a chief hazard factor for the improvement of oxidative stress in various organs and tissues. Nicotine is rapidly absorbed by the mucosal lining of the respiratory tract and the lungs, and it can rapidly reach peak levels in the bloodstream and increases blood-brain barrier permeability. It induces oxidative damage and implicates in many brain disorders, apoptosis, inflammation, and triggers neurodegeneration. Also, Nicotine is a significant and independent risk factor for heart and lung disease development.