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A "philosophical molecule," hydrogen may overcome senescence and intractable diseases.

水素分子が老化と難治性疾患に与える影響:ヒドロキシルラジカル消去の観点からの考察

review inhalation not assessed

Abstract

Reactive oxygen species, particularly hydroxyl radicals (·OH), are identified as central contributors to cellular senescence and the progression of various diseases. Among candidate scavengers, molecular hydrogen (H₂) is highlighted as uniquely capable of penetrating mitochondrial membranes—the primary site of ·OH generation—and neutralizing these radicals. This review argues that endogenous and exogenous H₂ may contribute to both disease prevention and physiological recovery. A practical concern noted is the explosive nature of H₂ gas, which necessitates the engineering of safe inhalation devices suitable for domestic use. The authors advocate broader investigation into H₂ applications across aging-related and refractory conditions.

Mechanism

Molecular hydrogen penetrates mitochondrial membranes and selectively neutralizes hydroxyl radicals (·OH) generated predominantly within mitochondria, thereby reducing oxidative stress implicated in aging and disease pathogenesis.

Bibliographic

Authors
Hirano S, Ichikawa Y, Kurokawa R, Takefuji Y, Satoh F
Journal
Med Gas Res
Year
2020
PMID
32189669
DOI
10.4103/2045-9912.279983
PMC
PMC7871941

Tags

Disease:老化・フレイル Delivery:吸入投与 Mechanism:抗酸化酵素 ヒドロキシルラジカル消去 ミトコンドリア 酸化ストレス 活性酸素種

Delivery context

For inhalation applications of molecular hydrogen, the lower flammability limit (LFL) deserves careful handling. The classical 4% figure applies to closed-system mixtures; the practical inhalation-environment threshold is 10%. Even pure-hydrogen output (the UFL 75% paradox) passes through the flammable range at the air–gas boundary. High-concentration (66% / 100%) inhalers are documented in the Japanese Consumer Affairs Agency accident-information database and are not recommended.

Safety notes

For inhalation applications of molecular hydrogen, the lower flammability limit (LFL) deserves careful handling. The classical 4% figure applies to closed-system mixtures; the practical inhalation-environment threshold is 10%. Even pure-hydrogen output (the UFL 75% paradox) passes through the flammable range at the air–gas boundary. High-concentration (66% / 100%) inhalers are documented in the Japanese Consumer Affairs Agency accident-information database and are not recommended.

See also:

Other papers on the same disease / condition

Cite as: H2 Papers — PMID 32189669. https://h2-papers.org/en/papers/32189669
Source: PubMed PMID 32189669