Hydrogen, long known for its potential as an antioxidant, may have significant implications in slowing the aging process, according to research by Han AL, Park SH, and Park MS from the Wonkwang University, Republic of Korea. Their study, “Hydrogen Treatment Protects against Cell Death and Senescence Induced by Oxidative Damage,” published in the Journal of Microbiology Biotechnology, explores nanoparticle hydrogen water’s antioxidative and anti-aging properties.
The key focus of the study was on nanoparticle hydrogen in water due to its sustained presence, even after extended periods, unlike micro- and macroparticles of hydrogen that dissipate rapidly. This unique characteristic makes nanoparticle hydrogen water a promising agent in eliminating reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are closely associated with the aging process.
The study used murine embryonic fibroblasts extracted from 12.5-day old embryos of C57BL/6 mice. The researchers examined the capability of nanoparticle hydrogen water to combat hydroxyurea-induced ROS production, cytotoxicity, and the accumulation of β-galactosidase—a widely recognized aging indicator—and to promote cell proliferation.
Their findings were striking. Daily treatment with hydrogen water inhibited the accumulation of β-galactosidase in the cytoplasm and prevented the appearance of abnormal nuclei. When the aging process was artificially accelerated using hydroxyurea-induced oxidative stress, the beneficial effects of hydrogen water were even more significant.
As such, the research not only highlights the antioxidative properties of hydrogen water but also underscores its profound anti-senescence effects. These findings indicate that nanoparticle hydrogen water could potentially serve as a potent anti-aging agent.
While this study provides compelling evidence in favor of nanoparticle hydrogen water’s anti-aging properties, further research is necessary to understand its impact on human cells and any potential long-term side effects. In addition, future studies will need to investigate the optimal dosage and method of delivery of nanoparticle hydrogen water for maximum anti-aging benefits.
To sum up, this groundbreaking study by Han AL, Park SH, and Park MS illuminates a potential pathway in the fight against aging. By tapping into the antioxidant properties of nanoparticle hydrogen water, we may be one step closer to a scientifically supported means of combating age-related changes at a cellular level.
Reference: Han AL, et al. J Microbiol Biotechnol. 2017. “Hydrogen Treatment Protects against Cell Death and Senescence Induced by Oxidative Damage.” doi: 10.4014/jmb.1608.08011.