Molecular hydrogen: A potential radioprotective agent

Abstract

In recent years, many studies have shown that hydrogen has therapeutic and preventive effects on various diseases. Its selective antioxidant properties were well noticed. Most of the ionizing radiation-induced damage is caused by hydroxyl radicals (.OH) from radiolysis of H2O . Since hydrogen can mitigate such damage through multiple mechanisms, it presents noteworthy potential as a novel radio-protective agent. This review analyses possible mechanisms for hydrogen’s radioprotective properties and effective delivery methods. We also look into details of vitro and vivo studies for hydrogen’s radioprotective effects, and clinical practices. We conclude that hydrogen has good potential in radio-protection, with evidence that warrants greater research efforts in this field.

Study details

Article type

Review

Disease / injury model

Radiation-induced injury (acute and chronic, including hematopoietic, gastrointestinal, reproductive, skin, immune, and cardiac systems; cancer/radiotherapy context)

Dose comparison

The review notes different concentrations used in studies (e.g., 1–4% H2 for inhalation, 0.55–0.65 mM for oral water, 0.1–0.4 mmol/L for cell culture) and discusses the need for further research to determine optimal dosing and concentration for radioprotection.

Dose-dependent effect

Yes

Outcome

Positive

Findings

Hydrogen demonstrates significant radioprotective effects in vitro, in vivo, and in limited clinical studies, primarily through selective antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and gene regulatory mechanisms. It reduces oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and improves antioxidant status, with minimal adverse effects and potential to improve quality of life during radiotherapy.