Application of Molecular Hydrogen in Early Heart Failure Development: Modulation of Microcirculation, Metabolism, Oxidative Stress, and Myocardial Status

Abstract

Oxidative stress is a key factor in the development of chronic heart failure (CHF). Molecular hydrogen (H2) exhibits antioxidant properties, yet the mechanisms by which it alleviates hemodynamic disturbances and ischemic myocardial injury in CHF are not fully under- stood. This study examined the effects of a single (40-min) and multiple (40-min daily for 5 days) inhalations of H2 in a rat model of CHF induced by catecholamine administra- tion. Microcirculatory function was evaluated using laser Doppler flowmetry and laser fluorescence spectroscopy. Lipid peroxidation levels in plasma and myocardium were measured, and histological analysis of myocardial tissue was performed. The findings demonstrated that H2 inhalation improved microvascular perfusion (p < 0.05) by activating local regulation and restoring central control mechanisms. This contrasts with the decreased perfusion and disrupted adaptive regulation observed in CHF. Notably, oxidative stress and metabolic abnormalities induced in the model were significantly mitigated by H2, with the most substantial effects observed after multiple administrations (p < 0.05). Histological assessments revealed that repeated H2 inhalation reduces myocardial edema and preserves tissue morphology during cardiac remodeling. In conclusion, hydrogen therapy shows potential for delaying CHF progression at early stages by normalizing microcirculation and tissue metabolism.

Study details

Article type

Original Research

Disease / injury model

Chronic heart failure (CHF) induced by catecholamine (adrenaline) administration in rats

Duration

14 days

Dose comparison

Comparison between single (1x40 min) and multiple (5x40 min) hydrogen inhalation regimens was performed to assess the impact on microcirculation, oxidative stress, and myocardial status.

Dose-dependent effect

Yes

Outcome

Positive

Findings

Repeated inhalation of molecular hydrogen (H2) in a rat model of early chronic heart failure improved microvascular perfusion, reduced oxidative stress and metabolic abnormalities, and preserved myocardial tissue morphology. The most substantial benefits were observed after multiple H2 administrations, suggesting that hydrogen therapy may delay CHF progression by normalizing microcirculation and tissue metabolism.