Reconsidering molecular hydrogen deficits: A potential target for intervention?

Molecular hydrogen (H2, dihydrogen) is considered an antioxidant and signaling molecule that possesses potent antioxidative, antiapoptotic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Despite the growing interest in H2 as a potential therapeutic agent, there is a scarcity of fundamental studies on dihydrogen and limited knowledge regarding its effects on cellular health and function. In this paper, we propose a hypothesis concerning the potential link between H2 shortage and overall health status. The primary objective is to address two critical questions: first, what is the overall significance of H2 levels in maintaining optimal cellular function, and second, whether specific health conditions are associated with H2 deficiencies. Further validation is necessary to establish the relationship between H2 levels and health, yet the growing body of evidence indicates that disturbances in H2 turnover may have a modulatory effect on immune function, homeostasis, and the development of neurodegenerative diseases.