Hydrogen Water Injections Shrink Aggressive Breast Cancer in Mice
Four-dimensional data independent acquisition proteomics and metabolomics reveal mechanisms of hydrogen-rich water at Zusanli (ST36) point against triple-negative breast cancer in mice
Research hubs: Immune System · Reproductive System
This research was done in animals. Results in animals often don't carry over to people.
- Evidence type
- Animal study (mouse)
- Authors
- Liu Jingxuan, M O Qian, Lei Guowu, Jia Yejuan, L I Aiying, Jia Chunsheng, Pan Lijia
- Journal
- Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Year
- 2025
- PMID
- 41376217
- Study Type
- Mouse
- Delivery
- Water (Electrolysis)
- Dose
- hydrogen-rich water injection at Zusanli (ST36) acupoint for 21 days
- Duration
- 3 weeks
- Outcome
- Positive
- Peer Reviewed
- Yes
- Cited by
- 1 (OpenAlex, as of November 2026)
- Country
- China
TL;DR
Hydrogen-rich water injected at acupuncture points slowed tumor growth and activated immune and metabolic pathways linked to cancer suppression.
Key Finding
Injecting hydrogen-rich water at the Zusanli acupuncture point significantly slowed tumor growth in mice with triple-negative breast cancer and altered immune-related proteins and metabolic pathways associated with cancer suppression.
Summary
Researchers tested hydrogen-rich water injected at a specific acupuncture point (called Zusanli or ST36) in mice with triple-negative breast cancer (an aggressive form of cancer). After 21 days of treatment, the tumors grew significantly less in treated mice compared to untreated mice. By analyzing proteins and metabolites (small molecules produced during body processes), the researchers found that the hydrogen-rich water appeared to work by boosting immune cells and changing the activity of proteins involved in cancer growth.
Practical Takeaway
This is an early-stage mouse study combining two interventions (hydrogen-rich water and acupuncture point injection), so findings cannot yet be applied to humans. The results suggest hydrogen-rich water may influence immune responses in ways relevant to cancer, but human clinical trials would be needed to determine if this approach is safe or effective for people with breast cancer. Anyone with cancer should consult their oncologist before considering any experimental treatment.
Abstract (excerpt)
Objective: To develop a safe and effective green therapy for triple-negative breast cancer, this study combines hydrogen-rich water with acupuncture point injection, and finds that it can prevent tumor growth and minimize cancer metastasis. Methods: After 21 d of hydrogen rich water injection…