Hydrogen and Other Gases Show Promise as New Cancer Treatments
- Authors
- Jiaqi Yin, Jiarui Zhong, Wei Pan, Yanhua Li, Na Li, Bo Tang
- Journal
- Chemical Science
- Year
- 2025
- DOI
- 10.1039/d5sc05474e
- Study Type
- clinical
- Peer Reviewed
- Yes
- Country
- China
- Health Condition
- Cancer
- Body System
- Immune System
TL;DR
Scientists discovered that special gases like oxygen, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen can fight cancer better than traditional medicines because cancer cells can't build up resistance to them as easily, and the gases can reach more of the tumor. Researchers are getting better at delivering these gases to sick cells, which could mean a powerful new way to treat cancer in the future.
Key Finding
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Summary
Researchers conducted a comprehensive review of gas-mediated cancer therapies, focusing on hydrogen (H2), oxygen (O2), carbon monoxide (CO), and nitric oxide (NO). These therapeutic gases represent a novel anti-cancer strategy that addresses limitations of conventional treatments. The gases demonstrate reduced drug resistance and enhanced tissue permeability compared to traditional therapies. Scientists have developed innovative delivery systems and material platforms to effectively transport these gases to target cancer cells. The review examined cellular mechanisms of action, gas generation methods, and clinical applications. This emerging field shows promise for precise cancer treatment, though further development of delivery mechanisms and clinical translation are needed.
Abstract
Gas therapy represents a novel anti-cancer strategy based on endogenous gas molecules. This approach offers several advantages over traditional therapies, including reduced drug resistance and enhanced tissue permeability, making it a prominent research focus in precise cancer treatment. To achieve effective gas therapy, researchers have developed increasingly innovative gas delivery systems and material platforms. Here, we review recent advances in gas therapy, especially those involving oxygen (O2), carbon monoxide (CO), nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen (H2). We focus on introducing the cellular action mechanisms of various gases, newly developed methods for gas generation or transportation, and their main applications in cancer therapy. Moreover, the existing deficiencies in current strategies and the future development directions of gas-mediated cancer therapy are discussed.