Formaldehyde Exposure Decreases Vascular Function

What are the short-term vascular consequences of formaldehyde exposure in healthy female adults? In our latest podcast episode, Guest Editor Matthew Gorr (The Ohio State University) interviews lead author Stephen Ratchford (Appalachian State University) and expert Thiago Bruder (University of Pittsburgh) about the recent work by Augenreich et al, which was published as part of the AJP-Heart and Circulatory Physiology Call for Papers on Environmental Inhalants and Cardiovascular Disease. Utilizing a natural exposure model that measured via ultrasound the vascular response of students exposed to formaldehyde during their cadaver dissection laboratory coursework, Ratchford and co-authors found significantly decreased flow mediated dilation in the brachial artery, yet no changes in microvascular function. Ratchford and colleagues determined that only one short-term exposure to formaldehyde can have detrimental effects on vascular health. What is the significance of these finding for people exposed to formaldehyde for longer periods of time, such as instructors in cadaver dissection courses? Formaldehyde is a common preservative used in many industries, such as the cosmetic, lumber and construction industries. What are the implications related to occupational and environmental safety standards? Listen now.

 

Marc Andrew Augenreich, Jonathon Lee Stickford, Nina Stute, Laurel Kaitlyn Koontz, Janet M. Cope, Cynthia Bennett, Stephen M. Ratchford Vascular Dysfunction and Oxidative Stress Caused by Acute Formaldehyde Exposure in Female Adults  Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol, published October 16, 2020. DOI: doi.org/10.1152/ ajpheart.00605.2020