Nicotine, the active molecule in tobacco, has an immense impact on the world as we know it today. It is the centre of an industry that reports annual revenues of over $185 billion, responsible for approximately three million deaths each year.
Nicotine is a water soluble alkaloid that crosses the blood brain barrier rapidly after it is absorbed from the lungs. Reaching the brain roughly seven seconds after the first puff of a cigarette, it acts on the nicotinic cholinergic receptor, causing the release of dopamine and endorphins. Both of these neurotransmitters are believed to be responsible for the mood altering effects of nicotine.
This molecule also has some nefarious effects, such as elevated resting heart rate and blood pressure, as well as increased blood lipid levels, all of which increase the risk of heart disease. It contributes to the majority of global lung cancer cases.
In the 1500s, Native Americans introduced tobacco to the Europeans, who were impressed by the alkaloids’ alleged medicinal properties. In fact, nicotine is named after French diplomat Jean Nicot, who promoted the drug in France. Soon after its introduction in Europe, the addictive aspect of the chemical swiftly took hold. From a few European explorers, the chemical is now inhaled by approximately 1.2 billion people worldwide.
More recently, its neurotoxic properties were exploited for use as a highly effective insecticide. Interestingly, nicotine does seem to have some medicinal potential, as believed by its earliest proponents. Recent research points to a possible use in treating wounds, depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and ADHD.
