An H2-infused, nitric oxide-producing functional beverage as a neuroprotective agent for TBIs and concussions

Abstract

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a leading cause of death and dis- ability. Sports-related TBIs are estimated to be more than several million per year. The pathophysiology of TBIs involves high levels of inflammation, oxidative stress, dysregulation of ion homeosta- sis, mitochondrial dysfunction, and apoptosis. There is also a reduc- tion in cerebral blood flow, leading to hypoxia and reduced removal of metabolic waste, which further exacerbates the injury. There is currently no recognized effective medical treatment or intervention for TBIs, which may in part be due to the difficulty of drug delivery through the blood-brain barrier. Molecular hydrogen has recently emerged as a neuroprotective medical gas against cerebral infarc- tionandneurodegenerativediseasesincludingTBIs. Itssmallmolec- ular size and nonpolar nature allow it to easily diffuse through the blood-brain barrier, cell membranes and subcellular compartments. Hydrogen has been shown to exert selective anti-inflammatory, an- tioxidant, and anti-apoptotic effects by regulating various transcrip- tion factors and protein phosphorylation cascades. Nitric oxide is another well-recognized medical gas that plays divergent roles in protecting from and in the recovery of TBIs, as well as in contribut- ing to their pathophysiology and injury. Excessive activation of in- ducible nitric oxide synthase leads to excess inflammation and ox- idative/nitrosative damage as well as a paradoxical nitric oxide de- pletion in the locations it is needed. Hydrogen regulates nitric ox- ide production and metabolism, which enhances its benefits while reducing its harms. A novel H2-infused, nitric oxide producing bev- erage, Hydro Shot, may have important neuroprotective benefits for TBIs. We report preliminary indications that Hydro Shot may be a meaningful adjuvant treatment for TBIs.

Study details

Article type

Original Research

Disease / injury model

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) / Concussion

Dose-dependent effect

No

Outcome

Positive

Findings

Preliminary results indicate that the H2-infused, nitric oxide-producing beverage (Hydro Shot) may improve cognitive function and exert neuroprotective effects in traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and concussions, as measured by improved ImPACT and Brain Gauge scores in older adults.