Molecular hydrogen: a preventive and therapeutic medical gas for various diseases

Abstract

Since the 2007 discovery that molecular hydrogen (H2) has selective antioxidant properties, multiple studies have shown that H2 has beneficial effects in diverse animal models and human disease. This review discusses H2 biological effects and potential mechanisms of action in various diseases, including metabolic syndrome, organ injury, and cancer; describes effective H2 delivery approaches; and summarizes recent progress toward H2 applications in human medicine. We also discuss remaining questions in H2 therapy, and conclude with an appeal for a greater role for H2 in the prevention and treatment of human ailments that are currently major global health burdens. This review makes a case for supporting hydrogen medicine in human disease prevention and therapy.

Study details

Article type

Review

Disease / injury model

Multiple disease models: metabolic syndrome, organ injury, cancer, neurological, cardiovascular, digestive, respiratory, urinary, reproductive, sensory, skin, tissue dysfunctions

Dose-dependent effect

No

Outcome

Neutral

Findings

Molecular hydrogen (H2) demonstrates preventive and therapeutic effects in a wide range of animal models and human diseases, including metabolic syndrome, organ injury, cancer, neurological, cardiovascular, digestive, respiratory, urinary, reproductive, sensory, skin, and tissue dysfunctions. H2 acts via selective anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, anti-apoptosis, and modulation of gene expression and signaling pathways. Delivery methods include inhalation, oral hydrogen-rich water, hydrogen-rich saline injection, topical application, and stimulation of endogenous H2 production.