The excessive presence of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) plays a significant role in the development and advancement of various chronic illnesses, including cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and chronic diabetic ulcers. To combat this problem, hydrogen therapy has emerged as a promising and innovative treatment method. By employing molecular H2, this therapeutic approach aims to specifically target and eliminate RONS, thereby restoring intracellular redox homeostasis and effectively treating associated chronic diseases.
RONS, encompassing unstable molecules such as free radicals, are known to cause damage to cells and tissues when their levels exceed the body’s natural antioxidant defense system. This imbalance in oxidative stress has been implicated in the initiation and progression of numerous chronic disorders, leading to impaired physiological functions and deteriorating health conditions. Recognizing the detrimental impact of RONS, researchers have turned their attention to hydrogen therapy as a potential solution.
Hydrogen gas, with its unique properties and ability to readily diffuse across biological membranes, has gained considerable attention as a therapeutic agent that can selectively neutralize RONS. The administration of molecular H2 effectively scavenges harmful free radicals, mitigating their detrimental effects on cellular structures and signaling pathways. Moreover, hydrogen therapy contributes to the restoration of redox homeostasis, maintaining a delicate balance between oxidants and antioxidants within the body.
The application of hydrogen therapy holds great promise for the treatment of several chronic diseases. In the context of cancer, studies have demonstrated the inhibitory effects of hydrogen gas on tumor growth and metastasis. Its selective action against RONS helps suppress the proliferation of cancer cells and enhance the efficacy of conventional anticancer therapies. Additionally, hydrogen therapy exhibits neuroprotective properties, making it a potential therapeutic avenue for neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, molecular H2 shows promise in slowing down cognitive decline and preserving neuronal function.
Chronic diabetic ulcers, a common complication of diabetes, often pose significant challenges in terms of wound healing. Hydrogen therapy has shown potential in promoting the healing process by alleviating oxidative stress and reducing inflammation at the site of the ulcer. By creating a favorable environment for tissue regeneration, molecular H2 may facilitate the closure of chronic wounds, improving the quality of life for individuals living with diabetes.
While hydrogen therapy holds great promise, further research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms of action and optimize its therapeutic applications. The development of innovative delivery methods and the identification of appropriate dosage regimens are essential steps towards harnessing the full potential of this emerging treatment approach. Nevertheless, the overexpression of RONS in various chronic diseases underscores the importance of exploring alternative therapeutic strategies such as hydrogen therapy, which offers a targeted and efficient means of restoring redox homeostasis and combating the progression of these debilitating conditions.
