Molecular hydrogen in the treatment of acute and chronic neurological conditions: mechanisms of protection and routes of administration

Abstract

Oxidative stress caused by reactive oxygen species is considered a major mediator of tissue and cell injuries in various neuronal conditions, including neurological emergencies and neurodegenerative diseases. Molecular hydrogen is well characterized as a scavenger of hydroxyl radicals and peroxynitrite. Recently, the neuroprotective effects of treatment with molecular hydrogen have been reported in both basic and clinical settings. Here, we review the effects of hydrogen therapy in acute neuronal conditions and neurodegenerative diseases. Hydrogen therapy administered in drinking water may be useful for the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases and for reducing the symptoms of acute neuronal conditions.

Study details

Article type

Review

Disease / injury model

Acute and chronic neurological conditions (ischemic/hemorrhagic stroke, TBI, spinal cord injury, sepsis-associated encephalopathy, CO poisoning, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease)

Dose comparison

The review compares different concentrations of hydrogen gas (e.g., 2% vs 4% inhalation) and finds similar efficacy at both concentrations in some models.

Dose-dependent effect

Yes

Outcome

Positive

Findings

Hydrogen therapy shows neuroprotective effects in both acute and chronic neurological conditions, including ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, sepsis-associated encephalopathy, carbon monoxide poisoning, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. Multiple administration routes (inhalation, hydrogen-rich water, hydrogen-rich saline) are effective, with no known serious side effects. Mechanisms include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and gene expression modulation effects.