Molecular Hydrogen as a Neuroprotective Agent

Title:Molecular Hydrogen as a Neuroprotective Agent

Volume: 15 Issue: 2

Author(s): Masumi Iketani and Ikuroh Ohsawa

Affiliation:

Keywords: Brain injury, cerebrovascular disease, inflammation, molecular hydrogen, neonatal brain disorder, neurodegenerative disorder, oxidative stress.

Abstract: Oxidative stress and neuroinflammation cause many neurological disorders. Recently, it has been reported that molecular hydrogen (H₂) functions as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. The routes of H₂ administration in animal model and human clinical studies are roughly classified into three types, inhalation of H₂ gas, drinking H₂-dissolved water, and injection of H₂-dissolved saline. This review discusses some of the remarkable progress that has been made in the research of H₂ use for neurological disorders, such as cerebrovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and neonatal brain disorders. Although most neurological disorders are currently incurable, these studies suggest the clinical potential of H₂ administration for their prevention, treatment, and mitigation. Several of the potential effectors of H₂ will also be discussed, including cell signaling molecules and hormones that are responsible for preventing oxidative stress and inflammation. Nevertheless, further investigation will be required to determine the direct target molecule of H₂.

Cite this article as:

Iketani Masumi and Ohsawa Ikuroh, Molecular Hydrogen as a Neuroprotective Agent, Current Neuropharmacology 2017; 15 (2) . https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/1570159X14666160607205417