In vitro exposure to vaped THC increased Candida albicans growth, metabolic activity, and biofilm formation in a dose-dependent manner, while upregulating virulence genes involved in adhesion and tissue invasion.
Dentists, oral health researchers, cannabis users concerned about oral health, and infectious disease researchers.
Four Candida virulence genes upregulated by vaped THC
What the researchers found
E-cigarette aerosol with THC increased C. albicans growth and metabolic activity more than aerosol without THC. The 15% THC concentration had greater effects than 10%. Vaped THC promoted biofilm formation and increased expression of virulence genes EAP1, SAP2, SAP4, and SAP9.
Why it matters
Cannabis vaping is increasingly popular, and oral candidiasis (thrush) is a known complication of cannabis use. This study provides a mechanism: vaped THC directly enhances the pathogenic potential of Candida, not just by suppressing immunity but by promoting the fungus itself.
The numbers in context
15% THC had greater effect than 10% on biofilm formation. Four virulence genes upregulated: EAP1, SAP2, SAP4, SAP9.
How the study worked
In vitro study exposing Candida albicans (SC5314 strain) to e-cigarette aerosol with or without nicotine and with 10% or 15% THC. Measured growth, metabolic activity, biofilm formation, and virulence gene expression via qPCR.
What this study cannot tell us
In vitro model may not replicate oral cavity conditions. Single Candida strain tested. THC concentrations in vapor may differ from real-world use. No comparison with smoked cannabis.
How to read the evidence
Controlled in vitro study with dose-response data, but lacks in vivo validation and clinical correlation.
When this study was published
2025 study examining vaped THC effects on oral Candida pathogenicity.
The bigger picture
As cannabis vaping grows, understanding oral health risks becomes important. This study adds to evidence that THC may increase susceptibility to oral infections through direct effects on pathogens, independent of any immunosuppressive effects.
Questions still open
- Do cannabis vapers have higher rates of oral candidiasis?
- Does CBD vaping have similar effects on Candida?
Common questions
Can vaping THC cause oral thrush?
Is vaping THC worse for oral health than other methods?
Read the original research
In Vitro Exposure to Vaped Tetrahydrocannabinol Increases Candida albicans (SC5314) Growth, Metabolic Activity, Biofilm Formation, and the Expression of Virulence Genes.
Microorganisms, 13(10)
Citation
Laaboudi, Fatima-Zahrae; Amri, Omayma; Rouabhia, Mahmoud. (2025). In Vitro Exposure to Vaped Tetrahydrocannabinol Increases Candida albicans (SC5314) Growth, Metabolic Activity, Biofilm Formation, and the Expression of Virulence Genes.. Microorganisms, 13(10). https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13102278
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