Therapeutic Effects of Hydrogen in Animal Models of Parkinson’s Disease

Abstract

Since the first description of Parkinson’s disease (PD) nearly two centuries ago, a number of studies have revealed the clinical symp- toms, pathology, and therapeutic approaches to overcome this intractable neurodegenerative disease. 1-methy-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6- tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) and 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) are neurotoxins which produce Parkinsonian pathology. From the animal studies using these neurotoxins, it has become well established that oxidative stress is a primary cause of, and essential for, cellular apoptosis in dopaminergic neurons. Here, we describe the mechanism whereby oxidative stress evokes irreversible cell death, and propose a novel therapeutic strategy for PD using molecular hydrogen. Hydrogen has an ability to reduce oxidative damage and ameliorate the loss of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neuronal pathway in two experimental animal models. Thus, it is strongly suggested that hydrogen might provide a great advantage to prevent or minimize the onset and progression of PD.

Study details

Article type

Review

Disease / injury model

Parkinson's disease (MPTP and 6-OHDA animal models)

Dose comparison

The review discusses that both low concentrations of hydrogen in drinking water and hydrogen gas inhalation are effective, but drinking water is considered easier and safer for continuous intake.

Dose-dependent effect

No

Outcome

Positive

Findings

Hydrogen administration (via drinking water or inhalation) reduces oxidative damage and dopaminergic neuronal loss in animal models of Parkinson’s disease (MPTP and 6-OHDA models), and improves behavioral impairments. Hydrogen selectively reduces hydroxyl radicals and oxidative DNA damage, suggesting neuroprotective effects and potential to prevent or slow PD progression.